Prime Minister Narendra Modi today marked a significant milestone in Chhattisgarh’s development by laying the foundation stone and inaugurating a series of projects worth over ₹33,700 crore in Bilaspur. On the auspicious occasion of Navratri and the New Year, the Prime Minister expressed his deep connection with the land of Mata Mahamaya and Mata Kaushalya, acknowledging the state’s spiritual and cultural significance. He underscored his commitment to transforming the lives of the people, particularly the underprivileged, through a holistic development agenda that spans infrastructure, housing, healthcare, and employment generation.
Among the most heartfelt moments of the event was the announcement that three lakh poor families in Chhattisgarh are stepping into their new homes. Modi called this a true blessing, emphasizing that providing a roof over one’s head is not just about construction but about restoring dignity, security, and hope. He recalled how, for years, the dreams of many remained stuck in bureaucratic red tape. But with determination, his government prioritized affordable housing, ensuring that families across the state, especially in tribal areas like Bastar and Surguja, now have a place to call their own. Many of these homes are owned by women, a testament to the empowerment of women in decision-making and economic independence.
Beyond housing, the event also showcased a broader vision for development. Modi highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including new schools, hospitals, roads, railways, and electrification efforts aimed at improving the quality of life across the state. He proudly noted that Chhattisgarh now boasts a fully electrified railway network, an achievement that will boost connectivity and economic growth. The government has allocated ₹7,000 crore in this year’s budget to further enhance rail infrastructure, ensuring that remote tribal regions are no longer left behind.
Employment was another key focus. The large-scale construction of homes and public infrastructure has generated countless jobs for local artisans, masons, and laborers. The use of locally sourced materials has further bolstered small businesses and transport operators. Modi emphasized that these projects are not just about physical structures but about strengthening livelihoods and community resilience.
Healthcare and education remain at the forefront of the government’s agenda. The Prime Minister spoke passionately about the importance of accessible medical facilities for poor and tribal communities. He highlighted the establishment of new hospitals and the impact of schemes like Ayushman Bharat, which provides free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh per family. The state’s education system is also receiving a major boost with the establishment of over 350 PM Shri Schools, which will serve as model institutions equipped with modern technology and infrastructure. Additionally, the introduction of Vidya Samiksha Kendra in Chhattisgarh will revolutionize real-time monitoring of education quality, ensuring students receive the best possible learning environment.
A major highlight was the government’s push for renewable energy through the ‘PM Suryagarh Muft Bijli Scheme.’ This initiative aims to help families generate their own electricity through solar panels, significantly reducing their power bills. The government is providing financial assistance of ₹78,000 per household for installation, and already over two lakh families in Chhattisgarh have registered for the program.
In a sharp critique of previous administrations, Modi accused past governments of neglecting development in tribal areas, allowing corruption to stall progress. He pointed to the rise of Naxalism as a consequence of this neglect, where lack of basic infrastructure and opportunities forced people into hardship. In contrast, he said his government has worked relentlessly to bring roads, railways, mobile connectivity, and clean drinking water to the remotest corners of the state. The newly launched ‘Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Utkarsh Abhiyan,’ with an investment of nearly ₹80,000 crore, is aimed at uplifting tribal communities by improving infrastructure and economic opportunities in nearly 7,000 villages.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged Chhattisgarh’s immense potential and rich resources, envisioning the state as a leader in India’s progress by the time it celebrates its 50th anniversary. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that no family, regardless of their socio-economic background, is left behind in the nation’s development journey.
As Chhattisgarh celebrates its Silver Jubilee Year, coinciding with the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Modi reiterated the promise, ‘We built it, and we will nurture it.’ He assured the people that every project launched today is a step toward a brighter, more prosperous future, driven by the collective dreams and aspirations of Chhattisgarh’s people. The event concluded with heartfelt cheers from the crowd, a reflection of the hope and confidence that these initiatives have instilled in the people of the state.
