Respect, Safety and Economic Empowerment of Women Our Highest Priority: CG Chief Minister Shri Sai

CG’s Chief Minister Attends Teej Milan Ceremony at Revenue Minister Shri Tank Ram Verma’s Residence

CG’s Chief Minister Felicitates Artists for Notable Contributions to Folk Art and Culture

CG’s Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attended the Teej Milan ceremony organised at the residence of Revenue Minister Shri Tank Ram Verma on September 22 and extended his greetings. He said women hold a special place in Chhattisgarh’s culture, traditions and social life, and their respect, safety and economic empowerment are among the State Government’s highest priorities, with the government considering them equal partners in building a developed Chhattisgarh rather than merely beneficiaries of welfare schemes.

Describing Teej as a festival associated with family values, close relationships and Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural traditions, the Chief Minister prayed to Bhagwan Shiva and Mata Parvati for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of women and their families.

He said Indian Sanatan culture has accorded women the highest respect since ancient times. Referring to the saying “Yatra Naryastu Pujyante Ramante Tatra Devatah,” he said women strengthen families through their hard work, sacrifice and values, and strong families form the foundation of an empowered society.

Mahtari Vandan Yojana Strengthening Women’s Financial Independence

Chief Minister Shri Sai said the Mahtari Vandan Yojana has emerged as an important means of strengthening women’s economic independence. More than 68 lakh women are receiving Rs 1,000 every month directly into their bank accounts, and over Rs 20,000 crore has been transferred through 31 instalments so far.

He said women are using the assistance for household requirements, children’s education, savings and small self-employment ventures. Some beneficiaries are investing in the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana for their daughters, while others are purchasing sewing machines and using their skills to generate income.

The scheme, he said, is not only providing financial support but also strengthening women’s confidence and participation in family decision-making.

13.85 Lakh Women Become Lakhpati Didis

Highlighting the State Government’s focus on sustainable livelihoods, Chief Minister Shri Sai said 13.85 lakh women in Chhattisgarh have become Lakhpati Didis.

Women associated with self-help groups are increasing their family incomes through various economic activities and small enterprises. The Chief Minister said the objective of women’s empowerment extends beyond financial assistance to connecting women with skills, sustainable livelihoods and self-employment opportunities.

He said greater economic participation by women is strengthening both families and the state’s economy.

Rs 650 Crore Film City to Promote Local Talent and Tourism

Chief Minister Shri Sai said Chhattisgarh’s distinctive folk art, culture, traditions, and natural beauty are among the state’s greatest strengths, and the state is making continuous efforts to preserve this heritage and give it wider recognition in India and abroad.

He said a Film City is being developed at a cost of around Rs 650 crore to promote filmmaking in Chhattisgarh. The project will expand opportunities for film production and shooting, create employment and provide new platforms for local artists, technicians and youth, while also contributing to tourism.

The Chief Minister said Chhattisgarh’s artists have made an invaluable contribution to preserving folk traditions and taking the essence of the state’s culture to audiences across India and the world. The government will continue to encourage cultural talent and create opportunities for artists to progress.

Artists Contributing to Folk Art and Culture Felicitated

During the ceremony, Chief Minister Shri Sai felicitated artists who have helped bring recognition to Chhattisgarh’s folk art and culture in India and abroad.

He said folk art, folk songs, folk dances and traditions are not merely cultural heritage but a living expression of the state’s roots and social life. Artists play an important role in preserving this identity and passing it on to younger generations.

Development Benefits Reaching Villages and Cities

Referring to Chhattisgarh’s development journey, Chief Minister Shri Sai said roads, electricity, drinking water, food security, and other basic amenities have expanded significantly over the years. He recalled the contribution of former Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh, particularly in strengthening the Public Distribution System and expanding essential infrastructure during his tenure.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Central and State Governments are working to ensure that development and welfare initiatives reach the last person.

He said 18 lakh houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have been sanctioned in Chhattisgarh, while around 1,600 houses are being completed every day. Initiatives related to housing, drinking water, electricity and road connectivity are being taken forward across rural areas.

The Chief Minister said Chhattisgarh is committed to contributing strongly to the national resolve of Viksit Bharat, with farmers, women, youth, workers and disadvantaged sections as important partners in the development process.

Peace and Development Opening New Possibilities

Chief Minister Shri Sai said significant progress against Naxalism is creating new opportunities for development in areas where violence and fear had earlier posed challenges.

He said Chhattisgarh is endowed with forests, forest produce, mineral resources and fertile agricultural land, and the government is committed to harnessing these resources in the public interest. Women’s participation, hard work and contribution will remain important in the state’s journey towards a developed Chhattisgarh.

Revenue Minister Greets Women with Chhattisgarhi Folk Song

Revenue Minister Shri Tank Ram Verma welcomed the women attending the Teej Milan and said the Chief Minister’s presence had made the occasion even more special.

Recalling the transformation of rural infrastructure over the years, he said villages have witnessed significant expansion of basic amenities and development works. Shri Verma also presented a Chhattisgarhi folk song, adding to the ceremony’s cultural and festive atmosphere.

Chief Minister Shri Sai also offered prayers to Vighnaharta Bhagwan Shri Ganesha at Revenue Minister Shri Verma’s residence. He prayed for the happiness, peace, prosperity and continued progress of Chhattisgarh.

Chhattisgarh Kesh Shilpi Vikas Board Chairman Shri Gauri Shankar Shrivas, Charm Shilpkar Board Chairman Shri Dhruv Kumar Mirdha, Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation Chairperson Ms Mona Sen, MLA Shri Rohit Sahu, Zila Panchayat President Shri Naveen Agrawal, Smt Veena Singh, along with a large number of women, artists and distinguished citizens, were present.