What recent bills did the Chhattisgarh Cabinet approve?

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What recent bills did the Chhattisgarh Cabinet approve?

Synopsis

In a landmark decision, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet has greenlit two major bills and a redevelopment scheme aimed at revitalizing the state's agricultural sector and governance. This move is expected to enhance financial stability and create numerous job opportunities while promoting sustainable practices.

Key Takeaways

  • Expansion of Krishak Unnati Yojana to diversify crop cultivation.
  • Chhattisgarh Pension Fund Bill for better pension management.
  • Chhattisgarh Growth and Stability Fund to buffer economic fluctuations.
  • Logistics Policy to attract investments and create jobs.
  • Redevelopment Scheme to revitalize government properties.

Raipur, June 30 (NationPress) In a significant move aimed at enhancing agriculture, governance, and economic infrastructure, the Chhattisgarh Council of Ministers convened on Monday, approving crucial proposals that include two vital bills and a redevelopment scheme, under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.

One of the major highlights was the expansion of the Krishak Unnati Yojana. Initially focused solely on providing input assistance to paddy farmers, the scheme will now extend its benefits to those cultivating pulses, oilseeds, and maize for the Kharif 2025 season.

“Registered farmers who cultivated and sold paddy at the minimum support price in Kharif 2024 will also qualify for assistance if they opt for these alternative crops. This initiative aims to promote crop diversification and lessen the state's reliance on paddy cultivation,” remarked Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao.

The Chhattisgarh Krishak Unnati Yojana, initiated in March 2024, serves as a flagship agricultural welfare program designed to improve farmers' incomes and encourage sustainable crop diversification. This program emerged in response to challenges faced by over 70% of the state's population that depends on agriculture, particularly due to income instability driven by unpredictable weather and rising input costs.

At its foundation, the scheme provides input assistance to registered farmers who grow paddy and sell it at the minimum support price (MSP). For Kharif 2023, the government disbursed Rs 19,257 per acre as support.

Implemented by the State Co-operative Marketing Federation Limited (MARKFED), the Food Department supervises procurement operations through cooperative societies. In a bid for fiscal stability, the cabinet also endorsed the draft Chhattisgarh Pension Fund Bill-2025.

“The fund seeks to ensure improved financial management of upcoming pension liabilities for state government employees. Chhattisgarh is positioned to become the first state in India to enact such a fund, showcasing a proactive approach to long-term financial planning,” added the Deputy Chief Minister.

To strengthen economic resilience, the cabinet also approved the draft of the Chhattisgarh Growth and Stability Fund Bill-2025. This fund will manage state revenue fluctuations and act as a financial buffer during economic downturns.

It is aimed at promoting stabilization by addressing revenue deficits caused by slowdowns, natural disasters, or other unexpected events. During high growth periods, surplus revenues can be funneled into the fund to sustain public investment and welfare programs in lean years.

Establishing savings in this manner reinforces fiscal discipline and minimizes excessive borrowing. This initiative aligns with broader fiscal reforms presented in the 2025–26 Budget, including the Chhattisgarh Pension Fund Bill-2025 and increased capital expenditure on infrastructure and digital governance.

As part of its vision to position Chhattisgarh as a logistics hub, the cabinet sanctioned the Chhattisgarh State Logistics Policy-2025.

“This policy aims to leverage the state's strategic location to attract national and multinational investments. It encompasses provisions for the development of dry ports, inland container depots, and enhanced storage infrastructure to benefit industries, traders, and farmers. This policy is also anticipated to generate significant employment opportunities and amplify exports of forest produce and medicinal products,” stated the Deputy Chief Minister.

Furthermore, the Cabinet has approved the Chhattisgarh Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill-2025, aimed at decriminalizing minor infractions under state laws. This bill is expected to minimize litigation and improve the ease of doing business.

Under the Redevelopment Scheme, seven projects were authorized to rejuvenate dilapidated government buildings and underutilized land, including sites such as Shanti Nagar and BTI Shankar Nagar in Raipur, Kailash Nagar in Rajnandgaon, and Chandni Chowk Phase-2 in Jagdalpur.

In a one-time relaxation, the Cabinet also shortened the minimum qualifying service for promotion from high-class registration clerk or record keeper to third-class executive sub-registrar under the Commercial Tax (Registration) Department, from five years to two, to expedite career advancement for qualified personnel.

Point of View

These recent decisions by the Chhattisgarh Cabinet reflect a proactive approach to economic and agricultural reform. By prioritizing crop diversification and financial management, the state is setting a precedent for other regions to follow, demonstrating an understanding of the challenges faced by its agricultural community and a commitment to sustainable development.
NationPress
30/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Krishak Unnati Yojana?
The Krishak Unnati Yojana is a flagship agricultural welfare program in Chhattisgarh that provides financial assistance to farmers for cultivating various crops, promoting sustainable practices and increasing farmers' incomes.
What does the Chhattisgarh Pension Fund Bill aim to achieve?
The Chhattisgarh Pension Fund Bill aims to ensure better financial management of future pension liabilities for state government employees, making Chhattisgarh the first state in India to legislate such a fund.
How will the Chhattisgarh State Logistics Policy benefit the economy?
The Chhattisgarh State Logistics Policy is designed to attract national and multinational investments by developing logistics infrastructure, creating jobs, and boosting exports.
What changes were made to promotion criteria in the Commercial Tax Department?
The Cabinet reduced the required service period for promotion from five years to two years for certain positions in the Commercial Tax (Registration) Department to accelerate career progression.
What projects are included in the Redevelopment Scheme?
The Redevelopment Scheme includes seven projects aimed at revitalizing dilapidated government buildings and unused lands in various locations across Chhattisgarh.