Shri Atal Ji’s Resolve and Vision Gave Chhattisgarh a Distinct Identity; State Progressing on the Path of Good Governance and Antyodaya: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai paid tribute to former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary, August 16. He offered floral tributes at Shri Atal Ji’s statue on the Chief Minister’s residence premises in Raipur. He recalled his towering personality, his service to the nation, and his historic contribution to the creation of Chhattisgarh.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that revered Shri Atal Ji was the architect of Chhattisgarh and a great national leader who understood and respected the aspirations of its people. His visionary leadership, firm resolve and sensitive approach transformed the long-standing demand for a separate state into reality. Recognising the region’s geographical distinctiveness and developmental needs, he gave Chhattisgarh its identity as a separate state. This historic decision will forever remain inscribed in golden letters in the state’s history.

The Chief Minister said Shri Atal Ji shared a deep personal and emotional bond with Chhattisgarh and its people. Recalling his own association with the former Prime Minister, Shri Sai said he had the privilege of receiving Shri Atal Ji’s affection, blessings and guidance. Those cherished memories, he said, continue to inspire him in public service.

Shri Sai described Shri Atal Ji as a multifaceted personality who left an indelible imprint on Indian public life as a sensitive poet, eminent journalist, powerful orator and visionary statesman. His ideological firmness was accompanied by humility, sensitivity and a commitment to dialogue, earning him respect across political and social boundaries. National interest remained paramount for him, and service to Maa Bharti was the highest purpose of his life.

The Chief Minister said that Shri Atal Ji established good governance and Antyodaya as fundamental principles of governance, with special emphasis on villages, low-income families, farmers, tribal communities, and disadvantaged sections. The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana gave new momentum to rural connectivity and socio-economic development, while his initiatives for farmers strengthened the rural economy.

Highlighting Shri Atal Ji’s commitment to tribal welfare, Shri Sai said the establishment of a separate Ministry of Tribal Affairs during his tenure reflected his sensitivity towards the rights, aspirations and comprehensive development of tribal communities. His initiatives helped extend the benefits of mainstream development to underserved sections of society.

The Chief Minister said it is now a collective responsibility to make the Chhattisgarh envisioned by Shri Atal Ji prosperous, developed and self-reliant. The State Government is moving forward on his principles of good governance, Antyodaya and public welfare, to ensure that the benefits of development reach the last person.

Shri Sai said Chhattisgarh is writing new chapters of development and good governance, with government initiatives focused on bringing positive change to the lives of villagers, the poor, farmers, youth, women and tribal communities. He said building a Developed Chhattisgarh in accordance with Shri Atal Ji’s vision would be the truest tribute to the architect of the state, whose life, thoughts and ideals will continue to inspire generations.

Chhattisgarh Housing and Infrastructure Development Board Chairman Shri Anurag Singhdeo was also present on the occasion.