Chhattisgarh Revives Pension for MISA Detainees of Emergency Era

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has fulfilled a key poll promise by reinstating the Samman Nidhi pension for individuals who were detained under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) during the Emergency from 1975 to 1977. The pension scheme, initially introduced in 2008, was discontinued by the previous Congress government in 2019.

Raipur, February 26: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai made several significant announcements during the Assembly session on Monday. He declared the restoration of pension for individuals who were detained under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) during the Emergency between 1975 and 1977.

Pension Scheme for MISA Detainees Revived

Speaking in the Assembly, Sai stated that the Samman Nidhi pension for MISA detainees will be restarted. This pension scheme was initially introduced in 2008 during the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rule in the state. However, it was withheld by the previous Congress government in 2019. Under this scheme, MISA detainees, also known as Lokantra Senani, were provided pension ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 in three different categories.

WiFi Facility for Villages and Safety Measures

In another announcement, Sai revealed that 1000 village panchayats will receive WiFi facility in the first phase of the PM-WANI scheme. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and enhance connectivity in rural areas. Additionally, the government has decided to equip public transport vehicles with vehicle location tracking devices and emergency buttons under the Nirbhaya Framework to ensure women's safety.

Key Poll Promises Fulfilled

Sai highlighted that several key poll promises made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi have been fulfilled by his government within just three months of coming to power. He mentioned that farmers have received minimum support prices on paddy, and the difference amount will be disbursed to them soon. The BJP had promised to procure paddy at Rs 3100 per quintal, while the minimum support price for common grade paddy is Rs 2183 per quintal and Rs 2203 for Grade A paddy.

Strengthening Anti-Corruption Measures

To further strengthen the state's Anti-Corruption Bureau, Sai announced the establishment of a regional office in the Durg division. This move aims to enhance the bureau's reach and effectiveness in combating corruption.

Budgetary Allocations for Electricity Subsidies

In the budget for fiscal 2024-25, the government has allocated Rs 3,500 crore to provide free electricity to farmers. Additionally, a provision of Rs 1,274 crore has been made to provide exemption in electricity bills to domestic electricity consumers, while Rs 539.60 crore has been earmarked for subsidy to BPL consumers.

Restoring Transparency in Mineral Transportation

To maintain transparency, the system of issuing online e-transit passes for mineral transportation has been restored. This measure is expected to generate mineral revenue of Rs 13,000 crore by the end of the ongoing financial year.

In conclusion, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai's announcements during the Assembly session demonstrate the government's commitment to addressing various concerns and fulfilling key promises made to the people of Chhattisgarh.