Raipur: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet convened today to address a range of critical issues affecting the state. A series of vital decisions were taken during the meeting, impacting agriculture, housing, land allocation, and more. Here’s a comprehensive look at the key takeaways from this crucial session.
**Agricultural Initiatives**
In a bid to support the state’s farmers, the Cabinet finalized the policy for procurement and custom milling of paddy and maize at support prices for the Kharif marketing year 2023-24. Under this policy, paddy and maize will be procured at government-declared support prices, offering a cash lifeline to farmers between November 1, 2023, and January 31, 2024.
Farmers can expect to sell a maximum of 20 quintals of paddy per acre and 10 quintals of maize per acre. Additionally, the government extended its guarantee of Rs 14,700 crore to the Chhattisgarh State Cooperative Marketing Federation Limited for paddy procurement, ensuring stability for the Kharif marketing year 2023-24, with the guarantee now valid until October 31, 2024.
**Nutrition Enhancement**
The Cabinet consented to supply Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) through the Indian National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) to fortify rice obtained from custom milling of paddy procured during the Kharif marketing year 2023-24. This move aims to improve the nutritional value of rice, aligning with the government’s commitment to health and well-being.
**Journalist Housing Initiative**
In a gesture of appreciation for the media community, the Cabinet approved a 15 percent discount for journalists purchasing houses in City Development Scheme No. 4 Kaushalya Mata Vihar. A substantial sum of Rs 6.37 crore has been allocated to Raipur Development Authority for this purpose, benefiting 309 journalists in the region.
**Land Allotment Revisions**
Addressing concerns over land allotment and the development of New Swagat Vihar in Raipur, the Cabinet canceled eight previously approved layouts. It designated New Swagat Vihar Colony as an unauthorized colony, paving the way for regularization. The decision is in line with the Kaushalya Mata Vihar Nagar Vikas Yojana and aims to provide plots to affected individuals.
**Economic Incentives**
To promote business growth, the Cabinet decided to offer land plots at a reduced rate of Rs 540 per square foot, down from Rs 945, for the proposed wholesale commercial market or commercial hub project in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar. The state government will reimburse the resulting loss of Rs 117.86 crore to Nava Raipur Authority, signaling a commitment to economic development.
**Government Appointments and Initiatives**
The Cabinet displayed a commitment to progress in various sectors, including public relations and education. It created three posts of Additional Director in Pay Matrix Level-15 within the Public Relations Department. Additionally, land allocation was approved for Widener Memorial School, and concessions were provided for various community buildings, reflecting the government’s dedication to the welfare of its citizens.
**Land Rights and Panchayat Revisions**
The Cabinet granted land ownership rights to occupants of the Manendragarh urban area predating the year 1959, acknowledging historical land usage. Furthermore, it relaxed criteria for transitioning Gram Panchayats Ghumka and Portha into Nagar Panchayats, promoting local governance.
**Education and Cultural Promotion**
The Cabinet appointed Sudeep Thakur as Director (Contractual) of Chhattisgarh State Hindi Granth Academy, strengthening cultural and educational initiatives. Additionally, Rameshwar Gahira Guru Prachya Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya Shri Kot in District Balrampur-Ramanujganj will receive 100 percent grant support under the Chhattisgarh Non-Government Colleges and Institutions (Establishment and Regulation) Act 2006, enhancing access to quality education.
