The overall development of the Surguja region and the empowerment of the tribal community are our government’s priorities: Chief Minister

Review of development works at the Surguja Area Tribal Development Authority meeting: A budget provision of ₹50 crore approved for the financial year 2025-26, 543 development works approved

Raipur: The Surguja Area Tribal Development Authority meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, held on Tuesday February 17 , 2026 in Baikunthpur, Koriya district, conducted a detailed review of the progress of development works underway in the districts of the Surguja division, and approved new schemes based on suggestions from public representatives.

Chief Minister Sai stated that the state government has prioritised the development of the Surguja and Bastar regions. Through the authority, continuous efforts are being made to connect backward and forest areas with the mainstream.

He stated that the government is fully committed to the overall development of the Surguja region, the empowerment of the tribal community, and the prosperity of the region. With everyone’s cooperation, the region will reach new heights of progress, the CM said .

The meeting approved a budget provision of ₹50 crore for the Authority for the financial year 2025-26. Based on proposals submitted by regional public representatives, financial approval of ₹4905.58 lakh was granted for 543 development works, while formal approval was also granted for 606 works approved for the year 2024-25.

Chief Minister Sai directed that all approved works be completed within the stipulated timeframe with high quality and that pending works be completed by March. The Chief Minister clearly stated in the meeting that any negligence in providing a basic facility like drinking water would not be acceptable. He directed that adequate drinking water be available during the summer season.

The meeting was informed that electrification work is progressing rapidly in the Sonhat development block of Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur district under the Pradhan Mantri Janman Yojana.

Chief Minister Sai gave clear instructions to the officials to complete the approved works in a timely and quality manner, so that the benefits of development schemes can directly reach the people of tribal and forest areas.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister directed the installation of high-mast solar lights in affected areas, resolution of farmers’ problems, rectification of electricity bill errors, and strict action against substandard construction work.

Chief Minister Sai said that the last meeting of the Authority was held in Mayali, Jashpur district, after which Mayali’s recognition as a tourist destination increased.

The world’s largest Shivalinga was included in the Golden Book of World Records and funds were approved under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme. He said that this meeting held in Baikunthpur will also enhance the district’s recognition and tourism potential.

CM Sai further said that the Jhumka Reservoir has immense tourism potential, and holding meetings in various districts thus accelerates local development.

Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam, Vice Chairman of the Authority Gomti Sai, Food Minister Dayaldas Baghel, Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade, Tourism and Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal, School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav, Industry Minister Lakhanlal Devangan, MP Chintamani Maharaj, MLAs, senior officers and public representatives were present in the meeting.