Raipur, August 16, 2026: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today paid homage to the late former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Atal Behari Vajpayee, on his death anniversary by offering floral tributes at his statue within the Chief Minister’s residence complex in the capital, Raipur.
The Chief Minister recalled Vajpayee’s towering personality, his service to the nation, and his historic contribution to the creation of Chhattisgarh. Anurag Singhdeo, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Housing and Infrastructure Development Board, was also present on the occasion.
Sai stated that the revered Atal Ji was the architect of Chhattisgarh and a great national leader who respected the sentiments of the state’s people. The creation of the state of Chhattisgarh was the result of his visionary leadership, firm resolve, and empathetic outlook. He understood the region’s geographical uniqueness, its developmental needs, and the long-standing public aspiration for a separate state, eventually realizing it during his tenure as Prime Minister. His historic decision to grant Chhattisgarh the identity of a separate state will forever be inscribed in golden letters in the state’s history.
The Chief Minister remarked that Vajpayee’s bond with Chhattisgarh was not merely political but deeply personal and emotional; he held a special affection for the state and its people.
Sharing his personal memories, Sai mentioned that he had the privilege of receiving Atal Ji’s affection, blessings, and guidance. Many cherished memories associated with him remain vivid in his mind to this day. Atal Ji’s affection and guidance are among the most precious memories of his life, continuously inspiring him on the path of public service.
The Chief Minister noted that Vajpayee possessed a multifaceted personality. As a sensitive poet, an astute journalist, a powerful orator, and a visionary statesman, he left an indelible mark on the Indian public consciousness. He was a universally accepted leader who commanded respect and affection from all sections of society, rising above party lines. Humility, sensitivity, and a spirit of dialogue, combined with ideological steadfastness, were the hallmarks of his public life. National interest was always paramount to him, and serving ‘Mother India’ (Maa Bharati) was the supreme goal of his life.
Sai stated that by making good governance and Antyodaya (upliftment of the last person) the foundation of administration, Vajpayee established a legacy of development that continues to guide the nation today. The historic initiative to connect villages via roads through the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana gave new momentum to the socio-economic development of rural India. The measures he took for the welfare of farmers and the strengthening of the rural economy had a far-reaching impact.
The Chief Minister noted that a separate Ministry of Tribal Affairs was constituted during Vajpayee’s tenure, prioritizing the all-round development of tribal society at the national level. This decision reflected his sensitivity towards the development, rights, and aspirations of tribal communities. He undertook numerous visionary initiatives to bring the fruits of mainstream development to villages, the poor, farmers, tribal society, and marginalized sections.
Chief Minister Sai affirmed that it is the collective responsibility of all to make the Chhattisgarh, whose foundation stone was laid by Vajpayee, prosperous, developed, and self-reliant. His government is committed to extending the benefits of development to the last person in the state by embracing Atal Ji’s values of good governance, Antyodaya, and public welfare.
He remarked that Chhattisgarh is currently scripting new chapters of development and good governance. Every effort of the government is focused on bringing positive changes to the lives of villagers, the poor, farmers, the youth, women, and tribal communities, and on realizing the resolve to build a developed Chhattisgarh.
Sai stated that the life, thoughts, and exemplary leadership of Atal Behari Vajpayee would always remain a source of inspiration for the nation and the state. His contribution as the architect of Chhattisgarh can never be forgotten. Building a prosperous and developed Chhattisgarh in accordance with his vision is the true tribute we can pay to him.
