The unique initiative “Garbage Café”, which provides food in exchange for plastic waste, has gained recognition across the country.

It is a matter of pride for the people of Chhattisgarh that the state’s innovations and determination to eradicate Maoism were mentioned in Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s “Mann Ki Baat” program. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai described it as an honor for the entire state that the Prime Minister made a special mention of Ambikapur’s “Garbage Café” initiative and the achievements of Indian-bred dogs. The Chief Minister listened to the 127th edition of “Mann Ki Baat” today at Shanti Nagar in the capital Raipur.

Prime Minister’s Message – Ambikapur’s Plastic-Free Resolution Transformed the City’s Image

Extending greetings on the occasion of Chhath Puja, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that “Mann Ki Baat” is a special platform that connects innovative, inspiring, and public welfare initiatives happening across the country. It provides national recognition to efforts that bring positive change in society. He said that the mention of Chhattisgarh in the program is a matter of pride for every citizen of the state.

The Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi appreciated the unique initiative of Ambikapur Municipal Corporation — the “Garbage Café” — which has set an inspiring example in the direction of making the city plastic-free. In this café, people receive food in exchange for plastic waste. This initiative has become an excellent example of cleanliness, recycling, and social sensitivity. In Ambikapur, a unique initiative has been launched to remove plastic waste from the city through Garbage Cafés. These cafés provide a full meal in exchange for one kilogram of plastic waste and breakfast for half a kilogram. The Ambikapur Municipal Corporation operates these cafés.

The Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister also highlighted the festive spirit of the nation, the social harmony represented by Chhath Puja, and the growing confidence of a progressing India. He expressed pride over the shrinking influence of Maoist activities and said that under the strong resolve of the double-engine government, remarkable progress has been made toward peace and security. Through the Niyad Nella Nar scheme, basic amenities are now reaching even the most remote villages.

The Chief Minister further said that “Operation Sindoor” has filled every Indian with pride. This year, lamps of happiness have been lit even in those areas that were once shadowed by Maoist terror. People now aspire for the complete eradication of the Maoist menace, which had endangered the future of their children.

Shri Sai added that the Prime Minister also appreciated the inclusion of Indian-bred dogs in security agencies. Citing an example, he said that in a Maoist-affected area of Chhattisgarh, a local-bred dog detected 8 kilograms of explosives, saving the lives of many soldiers. This proves that Indian breeds are more adaptable, efficient, and reliable.

The Chief Minister noted that the Prime Minister emphasized environmental protection and urged all citizens to plant trees, appealing for participation in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (A Tree in Mother’s Name) campaign. He said that environmental innovations must be promoted as a people’s movement.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Prime Minister called for celebrating the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram” as a national festival. Describing it as an immortal expression of patriotism, he urged every citizen to participate enthusiastically in honoring its legacy. The Chief Minister added that the Prime Minister paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, acknowledging his supreme contribution to tribal rights and the freedom struggle. He said that Tribal Pride Day is a day to express gratitude to those great leaders who sacrificed everything for the country’s freedom and dignity.

The Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister appealed to citizens across the country to share local innovations and positive efforts so that others can draw inspiration and contribute to the welfare of society.

Chief Minister Fed Punganur Breed Cows

After listening to “Mann Ki Baat”, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai fed fodder to Punganur breed cows and learned about their unique characteristics. Notably, this special breed found in Andhra Pradesh is known for its distinctive physical features and exceptional qualities.

The event was attended by MLA Shri Purandar Mishra, Chairman of Chhattisgarh State Industrial Development Corporation Shri Rajeev Agrawal, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Mati Kala Board Shri Shambhu Nath Chakravarti, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Minority Commission Shri Amarjeet Chhabra, and several other public representatives.