Raipur,Feb 23: Governor Ramen Deka on Monday called on all MLAs to work collectively towards transforming Chhattisgarh into a developed state by 2047. Addressing the House as the Budget Session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly commenced at the new Assembly building in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar, the Governor delivered his address for the eighth session of the sixth Assembly.
The Governor outlined the state government’s roadmap, focusing on infrastructure expansion, healthcare improvement, quality education, digital governance, and sustained economic growth. He stated that the “Anjor Vision Document” serves as the blueprint for achieving developed status by 2047. “We are steadily progressing towards its goals. With collective resolve, Chhattisgarh will achieve developed status by 2047,” he said.
Paying tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who was instrumental in the state’s formation, Deka remarked that the late leader’s vision is now taking concrete shape. He added that with the support of hardworking citizens, the state is unlocking its vast developmental potential.
The Governor emphasised that the welfare of the underprivileged remains the top priority, ensuring policies benefit the last person in line. Women’s empowerment, he noted, is central to the agenda, with “Mahatari Gaurav Varsh” being observed to celebrate maternal strength and advance social initiatives.
Highlighting agriculture as a cornerstone, Deka stressed that empowering farmers is essential for a “Viksit Chhattisgarh.” The government is connecting farmers to modern technology and fair pricing. This year, the state procured 141.04 lakh metric tonnes of paddy from 25.24 lakh farmers at the support price, disbursing ₹33,431 crore. Additionally, ₹10,292 crore will be released before Holi under the Krishak Unnati Yojana. Irrigation capacity has also expanded by 25,000 hectares over two years, reaching a total of 21.76 lakh hectares.
On internal security, the Governor highlighted achievements in anti-Maoist operations. Over the last two years, 532 Maoists were neutralised, 2,704 surrendered, and 2,004 were arrested. He noted that a revised surrender policy is facilitating the reintegration of youth into mainstream society.
In Naxal-affected regions, the “Niyad Nellanar” scheme is delivering basic amenities through 17 departments. Infrastructure in Bastar remains a priority, with ₹1,109 crore approved for 146 road and bridge projects.
Administrative reforms were also outlined, including e-filing systems, biometric attendance, and a new industrial policy offering subsidies to boost investment. “My government is incorporating public feedback to align policies with people’s aspirations,” Deka concluded.
Earlier, the Governor was welcomed by Speaker Dr Raman Singh, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Leader of Opposition Charan Das Mahant, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kedar Kashyap.