CM Vishnu Deo Sai leads Sewa Sankalp celebrations

Raipur, (VW) Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai joined thousands of citizens at Mahadev Ghat on Thursday to lead a grand Deepotsav and Maha Aarti organized to mark the 76th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Over 1.25 lakh earthen lamps illuminated the holy banks of the Kharun river during the ‘Aashirwad Ka Diya’ event, where prayers were offered for PM Modi’s health, longevity, and continued service to the nation. Across the state capital of Raipur, citizens lit an estimated 32 lakh lamps in various neighborhoods to mark the occasion.

Addressing the gathering at the riverfront, Chief Minister Sai praised PM Modi’s public service journey spanning 25 years. He noted that the nation has achieved unprecedented progress in development, national pride, and social welfare under the Prime Minister’s leadership. Landmark decisions such as the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the historic consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya have filled the country with renewed confidence, the Chief Minister said.

Highlighting the impact of central welfare initiatives, Chief Minister Sai stated that governance under PM Modi has prioritized the underprivileged. Key measures—including the provision of permanent housing, household toilets, Jan Dhan accounts, free cooking gas connections, and food security—have successfully uplifted millions of families across the country.

Recalling his personal association with PM Modi as a Union Minister of State in 2014, Chief Minister Sai shared that observing the Prime Minister’s discipline, work ethic, and dedication up close remained a defining milestone of his own public life. He also expressed gratitude for the Centre’s continued guidance and support toward Chhattisgarh, particularly in advancing development in tribal and remote regions.

The Chief Minister highlighted the decisive progress made against Maoist violence in the state through the combined resolve of PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the security forces. Peace and development are now replacing years of conflict in Bastar, opening up new opportunities in road connectivity, healthcare, education, mobile networks, and forest-based economic activities, he added.

The event coincided with the nationwide launch of the ‘Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan’, which will run from 17 September to 17 October. In Chhattisgarh, this month-long drive will focus on community-driven initiatives in sanitation, public health, nutrition, environmental conservation, and social welfare.

During the program, Chief Minister Sai released a musical tribute dedicated to PM Modi, composed and sung by Sadhvi Pragya Bharti, who also officiated the ritualistic Maha Aarti alongside a group of acharyas.