Raipur, April 23, 2026: While conducting a block-level review meeting for Raipur district, Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka stated that all officials should meet with the public, reach out to the communities, interact with beneficiaries, gather information regarding their grievances, and seek feedback on the various government schemes.
Deka remarked that the most effective way to understand the ground reality is through continuous dialogue with the people. The Governor commended the district administration for its ongoing initiatives: ‘Project Aja,’ ‘Project Green Palna,’ and ‘Project Rachna.’ He also emphasized the need to enhance community participation in these schemes.
The Governor also praised the ongoing construction of small ponds (dabris) across various blocks of the district, stating that big farmers should be encouraged to undertake such projects. He noted that this would lead to an improvement in Raipur’s groundwater levels and assist in addressing potential drinking water shortages in the future.
Citing successful models implemented in other states, he advised officials to adopt practical and effective measures. The Governor pointed out that paddy cultivation is extensive in the state, which leads to high water consumption; therefore, big farmers should also be encouraged to diversify into other crops.
The Governor observed that Raipur is developing rapidly, and water conservation is set to become a paramount necessity in the coming years. He placed special emphasis on water awareness, the conservation of resources, and their judicious utilization. Furthermore, he issued directives to maintain comprehensive records of water sources at every block level to facilitate the formulation of more effective plans and strategies.
Deka suggested that small ponds should be constructed at the Gram Panchayat level. He stressed the importance of ensuring community participation in this endeavor and involving elected representatives in such activities. He also directed that rainwater harvesting systems be implemented in all government offices and that others be encouraged to follow suit. He reiterated his strong emphasis on water awareness, resource conservation, and proper resource utilization.
Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh briefed the Governor on the various innovative initiatives currently being implemented by the Raipur district administration. He informed the Governor that, over the past year, the construction of wells in rural areas has been expedited and executed in a “mission mode.” Additionally, rainwater harvesting systems are now being mandatorily incorporated into houses sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme).
The Governor also planted saplings within the Collectorate premises as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (A Tree in Mother’s Name) campaign.
The Governor urged that tree plantation be promoted to the fullest extent. He suggested planting trees at AIIMS, Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Hospital, and various schools. Tree plantation could also be undertaken along roadsides, which would further aid in curbing pollution. He remarked that the abundance of trees and greenery serves as a true hallmark of development.
While reviewing the “Har Ghar Munga” (Moringa in Every Home) project, the Governor emphasized that farmers engaged in organic and natural farming should be encouraged. He called for the promotion of organic farming, noting that value addition is essential within the realm of natural farming. He specifically advocated for the promotion of hydroponics, highlighting its significant potential for the future. He further suggested the development of hydroponic nurseries.
Addressing traffic management, the Governor stated that there is a need to regulate heavy vehicles within the district. He issued directives to prioritize raising awareness regarding issues such as rash driving and helmet usage, and to initiate punitive action only when deemed necessary.
Expressing deep concern over the escalating problem of substance abuse, he asserted that it is imperative to curb this menace immediately through a combination of strict enforcement and public awareness.
Present on this occasion were Raipur Municipal Commissioner Vishwadeep, District Panchayat CEO Kumar Bishwaranjan, DFO Loknath Patel, Raipur Rural SP Manisha Thakur, the Governor’s Deputy Secretary Nidhi Sahu, along with other officials.
