'Freebies a worry, but welfare policy needed'

State govt aims to double GSDP in next 5 yrs, with a target of $75L crore over next 25 yrs, says C’garh CM Vishnu Deo

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HHATTISGARH is celebrating the silver jubilee of its formation this year. The BJP has governed the tribal state for most of this period. In an interview with Jitendra Choubey, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai discusses his government’s achievements and the developmental challenges that persist. Excerpts:

Looking at the next 25 years, what is your boldest vision for Chhattisgarh in 2050? Earlier, our people faced the dire issue of hunger. People relied solely on traditional sources for their livelihoods, such as kodo, kutki, and mahua. Later, we developed one of the best Public Distribution Systems (PDS), providing affordable rice and salt to tribal and rural communities. Also, we implemented fair pricing for forest produce, built roads and hospitals, and laid electricity lines. For the next 25 years, we’ve created a blueprint and vision documents to transform Chhattisgarh into a developed state. We aim to double our current Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) within the next five years, with a target of reaching ₹75 lakh crore over the next 25 years.

Which sectors will you prioritise to generate jobs and promote inclusive development?