Latest news with #Mahant
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Uproar over ‘incomplete work, delayed pay' for PMAY houses
Raipur: Opposition Congress raised the issue of completion of work and payments under PM Awas Yojana and MNREGA in the Assembly. Leader of Opposition Charan Das Mahant questioned the state's handling of PM housing benefits, especially in cases where houses were allegedly marked complete despite missing toilets. He asked if the completion is considered 'completed' after payments are done for construction of house, MNREGA work and building of toilets or is it considered 'completed' without these provisions. Deputy CM Vijay Sharma defended by attributing past delays to the previous govt and claimed that under CM Vishnu Deo Sai, all pending payments had been cleared right from year 2011. In further exchanges, Mahant raised concerns about fund delays in MNREGA, citing specific districts like Jashpur and Bijapur. Sharma responded that all labour payments were made by June 30, but agreed to verify any discrepancies if provided with documentation, mainly in interior regions of Bijapur, where bank accounts might not be functional. Mahant reacted stating that he has got complaints about completed houses under PMAY, the payments for which were stalled by claiming they were incomplete and they were trying to "fool" the govt. Sharma replied that Mahant's comment was very hurtful to him and he's ready with all the documents that show how Congress delayed the PMAY construction despite approval from the Centre. This was followed by noisy scenes as opposition members audibly objected to Sharma's reply. Later, LoP Mahant called for a CBI probe into the handling of PMAY in the state.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
High political tension on electricity tariff hike as LoP charges govt with ‘anti-people' move
Raipur: The third day of the Monsoon Session of the witnessed intense debate and sharp exchanges as the Opposition Congress moved an adjournment motion over the recent hike in electricity tariffs. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Leader of Opposition Dr Charandas Mahant led the charge, terming the hike as burdensome and unjustified, while chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai defended the increase, calling it one of the lowest in the country and necessary for the state's energy goals. Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Mahant criticized the govt's "anti-people" decision to raise tariffs across all consumer categories, including domestic users, farmers, and small businesses. Mahant reminded the House that the recent hike was the second tariff increase in just 20 months since the Sai-led govt came to power. "Nearly six million consumers have been affected. Even farmers are now paying more per unit than industrial units. What kind of govt's priority is this?" Mahant questioned over the electricity tariff hike in the Assembly. Common Citizens Punished With Higher Bills As Govt Depts Don't Pay Theirs: LoP Mahant also pointed to what he described as alarming mismanagement in the power sector. "Over Rs 8,000 crore in dues are unpaid, Rs 2,500 crore by govt departments and Rs 5,500 crore in subsidies. To make up for this, common citizens are being punished with higher bills," he said. He also cited repeated fire incidents at power department godowns in Raigarh, Gudhiyari in Raipur, and Bhilai-3 within the last 20 months, calling them indicators of systematic negligence. "Even under the RDS scheme, Rs 3,560 crore was sanctioned by the Centre. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now But if the govt doesn't pay its share, the 60% grant will be converted into debt. This is how you plan to develop Chhattisgarh?" he asked. Adding to his criticism, Mahant said that power cuts, low voltage, and erratic supply were frequent, even at ministerial residences. "What are common citizens supposed to expect?" he asked. CM's Response Responding to the notice of adjournment motion, CM Vishnu Deo Sai asserted that the hike was modest and transparent. "Only a 1.89% rise has been approved for 2025–26. That's among the lowest in the country. For farmers, the 50 paise per unit increase will have zero impact as their bills are already subsidized and paid in advance by the govt," Sai clarified. He added that domestic consumers will see a mere 10 to 20 paise rise per unit, and that rates for energy-intensive industries, including mini steel plants and rolling mills, have been reduced to boost the manufacturing sector. Highlighting infrastructure development, Sai announced that a Rs 15,800 crore project for a 1320 MW power plant in Korba is underway. The CM also shared updates on ongoing improvements in supply and efficiency. "Urban areas are receiving 23.85 hours of electricity per day, rural areas 23.45 hours, and farm feeders 18 hours a day. We have reduced technical and commercial losses from 23.14% to 13.79%, which is a significant achievement," he said. He further pointed to over Rs 9,400 crore being invested through a Capital Investment Plan for transmission, distribution, and generation upgrades. Additionally, MoUs worth over Rs 3 lakh crore have been signed to generate employment and enhance energy infrastructure. Speaker Raman Singh informed the House that adjournment notices were received from 33 members. However, after the CM's assurance and presentation, he disallowed the notice for motion by the opposition. Rare Thankful Note In a rare move, LoP Mahant thanked the CM, saying, "At least it seems the govt is taking the matter seriously and CM is looking into it, hence, I am thankful to him."
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Power tariff tensions in Chhattisgarh Assembly, Hike calls for adjournment motion, CM Sai cites relief measures
RAIPUR: The third day of the Monsoon Session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly witnessed intense debate and sharp exchanges as the Opposition Congress moved an adjournment motion over the recent hike in electricity tariffs. Leader of Opposition Dr Charandas Mahant led the charge, terming the hike as burdensome and unjustified, while Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai defended the increase, calling it one of the lowest in the country and necessary for the state's energy goals. Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Mahant criticized the government's 'anti-people' decision to raise tariffs across all consumer categories, including domestic users, farmers, and small businesses. He reminded the House that the recent hike was the second tariff increase in just 20 months since the Sai-led government came to power. 'Nearly six million consumers have been affected. Even farmers are now paying more per unit than industrial units. What kind of govt's priority is this?' Mahant questioned. The July 11 decision by the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (CSERC) allowed the hike based on a petition from the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL). While the Commission is a statutory body that takes decisions post public hearing, the Opposition alleged that the process lacked transparency and scrutiny. Mahant also pointed to what he described as alarming mismanagement in the power sector. 'Over Rs 8,000 crore in dues are unpaid, Rs 2,500 crore by government departments and Rs 5,500 crore in subsidies. To make up for this, common citizens are being punished with higher bills,' he said. He also cited repeated fire incidents at power department godowns in Raigarh, Gudhiyari in Raipur, and Bhilai-3 within the last 20 months, calling them indicators of systemic negligence. 'Even under the RDS scheme, Rs 3,560 crore was sanctioned by the Centre. But if the government doesn't pay its share, the 60% grant will be converted into debt. This is how you plan to develop Chhattisgarh?' he asked. Adding to his criticism, Mahant said that power cuts, low voltage, and erratic supply were frequent, even at ministerial residences. 'What are common citizens supposed to expect?' he asked. CM Responds: 'Hike Minimal, Farmers Protected, Industry Boosted' Responding to the notice of adjournment motion, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai asserted that the hike was modest and transparent. 'Only a 1.89% rise has been approved for 2025–26. That's among the lowest in the country. For farmers, the 50 paise per unit increase will have zero impact as their bills are already subsidized and paid in advance by the government,' Sai clarified. He added that domestic consumers will see a mere 10 to 20 paise rise per unit, and that rates for energy-intensive industries, including mini steel plants and rolling mills, have been reduced to boost the manufacturing sector. Highlighting infrastructure development, Sai announced that a Rs 15,800 crore project for a 1320 MW power plant in Korba is underway. 'This will make Chhattisgarh power-surplus and ensure reliable supply,' he said. The CM also shared updates on ongoing improvements in supply and efficiency. 'Urban areas are receiving 23.85 hours of electricity per day, rural areas 23.45 hours, and farm feeders 18 hours a day. We have reduced technical and commercial losses from 23.14% to 13.79%, a significant achievement,' he said. He further pointed to over Rs 9,400 crore being invested through a Capital Investment Plan for transmission, distribution, and generation upgrades. Additionally, MoUs worth over Rs 3 lakh crore have been signed to generate employment and enhance energy infrastructure. CM Sai promoted solar adoption under the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, offering households up to Rs 1.09 lakh in combined state and central subsidies for rooftop solar systems. 'We are empowering citizens to become self-reliant energy producers,' he said. Speaker Raman Singh informed the House that adjournment notices were received from 33 members. However, after the CM's assurance and detailed presentation, he disallowed the notice for motion. In a rare move, Leader of Opposition Dr. Mahant thanked the Chief Minister, saying, 'At least it seems the government is taking the matter seriously and CM is looking into it, hence, I am thankful to him.'
Time of India
5 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Fertiliser crisis: Ruckus in House, 23 Oppn MLAs suspended & reinstated
Raipur: Opposition Congress MLAs on Monday protested in the Chhattisgarh Assembly over the shortage of fertilisers and seeds in the state. The issue was raised by Leader of Opposition Dr Charandas Mahant, who moved an adjournment motion during the Zero Hour of the monsoon session. Agriculture minister Ramvichar Netam responded to the concerns, after which Speaker Dr Raman Singh disallowed the motion. This led to protests and slogan-shouting by Congress MLAs in the well, prompting a brief adjournment of the House. Subsequently, 23 MLAs were suspended for entering the well, but were later reinstated. Presenting the adjournment notice, Dr Charandas Mahant said that Chhattisgarh has 40.10 lakh farmers, including 80% small and marginal farmers. The state primarily cultivates Kharif paddy. Unfortunately, farmers are currently facing a severe shortage of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertiliser. He alleged that the state govt has failed to ensure an adequate supply of fertilisers and has advised farmers to use alternative chemical options, which has increased cultivation costs. Dr Mahant claimed that an artificial scarcity of fertilisers has persisted in the state for the past two years, attributing it to the government's lack of will and indifferent attitude towards farmers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Lifetime Office 365 Download Undo For Kharif 2025, the government set a supply target of 3.10 Metric tonnes, which was 30,000 tonnes less than the target for Kharif 2024. So far, only 1.1 lakh tonnes of DAP have been supplied. Similarly, while 7.12 lakh tonnes of urea were to be supplied this Kharif season, only 3.59 lakh tonnes have been distributed. The estimated demand for paddy seeds was 4,32,159 quintals, while cooperative societies in Chhattisgarh had only 3,83,169 quintals in storage, Mahant informed the Assembly. He further said that despite the presence of a double-engine government, farmers are being forced to abandon farming and protest on roads at the state, district, and block levels due to the fertiliser crisis. Farmers allege that government cooperative societies lack fertilisers, while black marketing is rampant in the open market, compelling them to purchase DAP at inflated prices. He added that the alternative fertilisers advised due to the DAP shortage in primary cooperative societies are more expensive and of inferior quality compared to last year, imposing a double burden on farmers. Dr Mahant emphasized that this is not the first time the state has faced a fertiliser shortage, noting similar conditions prevailed last year as well. He demanded an immediate discussion on the issue through an adjournment motion to address farmers' distress. Patan MLA and former chief minister Bhupesh Baghel supported the motion, adding that farmers in Chhattisgarh are suffering due to the ongoing fertiliser crisis. In response, Agriculture minister Ramvichar Netam said that the govt is raising awareness among farmers about the balanced use of fertilisers and is providing training on alternatives. He acknowledged that the supply of phosphatic fertilisers was affected, prompting early alternative arrangements. Nano fertilisers have been recommended and stored in large quantities, he added. The minister cited global factors as the reason for the disrupted supply of chemical fertilisers. He said fertiliser stocks, including potash and other types, have exceeded targets, and sowing has been completed in over 28 lakh hectares, surpassing previous records. Following the minister's statement, speaker Dr Raman Singh disallowed the opposition's motion.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Fertiliser shortage sparks uproar in Chhattisgarh assembly house; 23 Congress MLAs suspended; later reinstated
Raipur: Opposition Congress MLAs on Monday protested in the Chhattisgarh Assembly over the shortage of fertilisers and seeds in the state. The issue was raised by Leader of Opposition Dr Charandas Mahant, who moved an adjournment motion during the Zero Hour of the monsoon session. Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam responded to the concerns, after which Speaker Dr Raman Singh disallowed the motion. This led to protests and slogan-shouting by Congress MLAs in the Well, prompting a brief adjournment of the House. Subsequently, 23 MLAs were suspended for entering the Well, but were later reinstated. Presenting the adjournment notice, Dr Mahant stated that farmers cultivating paddy during the Kharif season are facing a severe shortage of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertiliser. He alleged that the state government has failed to ensure adequate fertiliser supply and has advised farmers to use alternative chemical fertilisers, which has increased cultivation costs by Rs 55 per acre. Dr Mahant claimed that an artificial scarcity of fertiliser has affected the state for the past two years, attributing it to the government's "lack of will and indifferent attitude towards farmers". For the Kharif 2024 season, the government had set a target of 3.40 lakh metric tonnes of DAP but only managed to stock approximately 50,000 metric tonnes less than the demand. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo For Kharif 2025, the government set a supply target of 3.10 lakh metric tonnes, but only 1 lakh metric tonnes have been stocked so far. Dr Mahant emphasised that DAP fertiliser is crucial for optimal paddy yield, yet only about 30 per cent of the total requirement has been made available to the state. He added that the central government allocates the fertiliser quota for the state. Dr Mahant stated that despite having a "double-engine" government, farmers are forced to abandon their farming work and protest on roads at state, district, and block levels due to the fertiliser crisis. Farmers allege that government cooperative societies lack fertiliser, while black marketing of fertiliser is rampant in the open market, compelling them to purchase DAP from the market at Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500 per bag. He further added that alternative fertilisers, advised due to the DAP shortage in primary cooperative societies, are more expensive and of inferior quality compared to last year, imposing a double burden on farmers. Dr Mahant highlighted that this is not the first time the state has faced a fertiliser problem, with similar conditions prevailing last year. He demanded an immediate discussion on the issue through an adjournment motion to alleviate farmers' distress. Patan MLA and former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel added that farmers in Chhattisgarh are suffering due to the fertiliser crisis. He stated that the government has failed to provide fertilisers, forcing farmers to purchase them at double the price from open markets. In response, Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam stated that the government is raising awareness among farmers for balanced use of fertilisers and providing training on alternative fertilisers. He acknowledged that phosphatic fertiliser supply was affected, prompting early alternative arrangements. He stated that nano fertilisers were recommended and stored in large quantities. The minister stated that global reasons have affected the supply of chemical fertilisers. He added that fertiliser storage exceeded targets, and potash and other fertilisers were also stored. He informed the House that sowing had been completed in over 28 lakh hectares, surpassing previous figures. Following the minister's statement, Speaker Dr Raman Singh disallowed the Opposition's adjournment motion. Dissatisfied with the decision and the minister's statement, Congress MLAs protested and chanted slogans in the Well, leading to another brief adjournment of the House.
