Raipur, April 15 (NationPress) The Chhattisgarh Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, has made significant strides by approving a comprehensive range of decisions in the realms of legal reforms, welfare initiatives, industrial policy, and mining regulation.

Among the pivotal announcements is the establishment of a committee tasked with crafting a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) for the state. This committee will be chaired by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, with the Chief Minister having the authority to appoint its members.

The government has stated that the proposed UCC aims to standardize laws concerning marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and maintenance, which are currently governed by diverse personal laws.

This initiative is in line with Article 44 of the Indian Constitution and seeks to foster equality while simplifying the legal landscape. The committee will solicit input from the public and experts prior to presenting its recommendations for legislative action.

In a notable welfare initiative, the Cabinet has sanctioned a 50% reduction in registration fees for land purchases made in the name of women. This initiative is designed to promote property ownership and bolster economic independence among women, despite an anticipated revenue impact of Rs 153 crore.

Additionally, relief measures have been introduced for current soldiers, veterans, and their widows, offering a 25% exemption on stamp duty for property purchases up to Rs 25 lakh. This one-time benefit aims to assist them in obtaining permanent housing.

On the economic front, amendments to the Chhattisgarh Industrial Land and Building Management Rules, 2015 were approved to facilitate ease of doing business. The adjustments include clear eligibility criteria for land allocation, infrastructure provisions such as approach roads, and flexibility in shareholding structures.

The integration of financial institutions, including NBFCs, along with enhanced Public-Private Partnership (PPP) provisions, is anticipated to stimulate private investment.

In the mining sector, the Cabinet has approved amendments to the Chhattisgarh Minor Mineral Rules, 2015, and sand mining regulations to improve transparency and regulatory oversight.

According to the state government's announcement, the reservation of sand mines for public sector entities, such as the Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation Limited, will be permitted to ensure a steady supply and prevent monopolistic practices. Stricter penalties for illegal mining and provisions to declare non-operational mines as lapsed have also been introduced.

The Cabinet has also approved the expansion of the Milch Cattle Supply Scheme to include all social categories in collaboration with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), aiming to enhance rural livelihoods and self-employment opportunities.

To fortify livestock health, approval has been granted for the procurement of vaccines from Indian Immunologicals Limited, ensuring timely disease control and increased productivity.

In a significant financial move, the Cabinet has approved a structured settlement of Rs 10,536 crore in pension liabilities as stipulated by the Madhya Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2000, with the remaining balance to be disbursed in installments.