Raipur, Sep 23 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Vishnu Deo Sai, is set to inaugurate 51 newly-constructed 'Mahatari Sadans' on Tuesday, located in Karelibari village within the Dhamtari district. This event signifies a key milestone in the state's efforts towards empowering rural women.

As part of a state-level initiative, the ceremony will also see the unveiling of development and construction projects amounting to Rs 245.80 crore in the district.

Karelibari, situated in the Kurud Assembly constituency, is among four Gram Panchayats in Dhamtari where 'Mahatari Sadans' have already been established under this scheme. The other villages include Bhendri, Medha, and Kharenga. These community centers aim to promote self-reliance, mutual harmony, and active participation among women, particularly those engaged in self-help groups.

The Mahatari Sadan Construction Scheme, initiated under the broader framework of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Self-Reliant India campaign, strives to align women's capabilities with national development goals. For the first phase of 2024–25, the Chhattisgarh government has allocated Rs 50 crore for the establishment of 202 Mahatari Sadans.

Each unit is approximately 2,500 square feet and is built at a cost of Rs 24.70 lakh. Facilities include a hall, room, kitchen, store, shop, boundary wall, toilet, and borewell.

The inauguration will be graced by Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, along with ministers Vijay Sharma, Ram Vichar Netam, and Tankaram Verma, as well as numerous local representatives.

Importantly, two lakh women from self-help groups across the state will participate in the event virtually, highlighting the extensive impact of this initiative.

Looking forward, the second phase of the scheme is anticipated to commence in 2025–26, with an additional Rs 50 crore earmarked for the construction of 166 further 'Mahatari Sadans'.

In this phase, each unit will be constructed at an increased cost of ₹30 lakh, reflecting enhanced infrastructure and elevated construction standards.

The 'Mahatari Sadan' initiative marks a transformative step in Chhattisgarh's rural development strategy, providing women with not just a physical space, but also a platform for leadership, collaboration, and economic engagement.

As the state continues to invest in such inclusive infrastructure, the vision of a self-reliant and empowered rural society draws closer to reality.