CHIEF MINISTER Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday said that development acquires real strength when society remains organised and socially aware. Addressing the foundation day and oath-taking ceremony at Kosamnara Dham on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, the Chief Minister underlined the importance of unity, education and collective participation in building a developed Chhattisgarh. He said the Sahu community’s commitment and social consciousness have played a vital role in the State’s social and economic upliftment. “Active participation of society is essential for the progress of Chhattisgarh,” he remarked. Reiterating the Government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare, Sai announced that more than 25 lakh farmers who sold paddy at the Minimum Support Price will receive a lump sum payment of Rs 3,100 per quintal before Holi. Approximately Rs 10,000 crore will be transferred directly into farmers’ bank accounts.

 

“The prosperity of our brothers and sisters who provide food is the government’s top priority. We are committed to ensuring respect and fair value for the hard work of farmers,” he said. Earlier, the Chief Minister offered prayers at the Shri Shri 108 Satyanarayan Babaji and Bhakta Mata Karma-Krishna Temple in Kosmanara, seeking happiness, prosperity and well-being for the people of the State. He extended warm greetings to citizens on the occasion of Mahashivratri. Referring to Pujya Satyanarayan Baba’s spiritual journey, Sai said that since February 16, 1998, Baba has been engaged in continuous penance under the open sky. “His meditation for over 28 years across all seasons is unique and deeply inspiring. The shrine today stands as a symbol of social harmony, faith and brotherhood,” he noted. The Chief Minister added that with Baba’s blessings, he had the opportunity to serve four terms as Member of Parliament and now as Chief Minister. He prayed for continued divine blessings on the people of Chhattisgarh. During the programme, Sai announced Rs 50 lakh for additional construction at the Karma Sahu Community Hall in Kosamanara.

 

He also highlighted the Shri Ram Lalla Darshan Yojana and the Chief Minister’s Teerth Darshan Yojana, stating that these initiatives are enabling citizens to visit major pilgrimage centres across the country, including Ayodhya. Several individuals including Tribhuvan Sahu, Bharat Lal Sahu, Kapil Nath, Aruna Sahu, Manoj Sahu and Vedram Sahu were felicitated for their contributions to social welfare. The Korba District Sahu Sangh magazine and the Baba Satyanarayan Chalisa were also released on the occasion. Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao said the unity of the Sahu community would play a significant role in building a developed State. Finance Minister O P Choudhary informed about proposed development works worth approximately Rs 1.50 crore for Kosamnara Dham. Among those present were Lok Sabha MP Radheshyam Rathiya, Kasdol MLA Sandeep Sahu, Jaijaipur MLA Baleshwar Sahu, Mayor Jeevardhan Chauhan, former MP Lakhanlal Sahu and other public representatives, senior officials and a large number of devotees.