New Delhi, October 6, 2025 – Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Mr. Vishnudev Sai today had a courtesy meeting with Union Defence Minister Mr. Rajnath Singh at his residence in New Delhi. In the meeting, fruitful discussions were held on several important topics such as the expansion of Bilaspur Airport, the development of the defense sector, the organization of army recruitment rallies throughout the state, and the naming of naval ships. On this occasion, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Mr. Tokhan Sahu, and the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Mr. Subodh Kumar Singh, were also present.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Mr. Vishnudev Sai informed Defence Minister Mr. Rajnath Singh that the Ministry of Defence has land in Bilaspur. He requested that this land be made available for the expansion of Bilaspur Airport. Along with this, the Chief Minister also urged to start developmental works related to the defense sector here.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that there is special enthusiasm among the youth in Chhattisgarh for joining the army. He said that the youth of the state have discipline, physical ability and a sense of patriotism. On this basis, he requested the Defence Minister to organize special “army recruitment rallies” throughout the state, so that the youth could get an opportunity to serve the country in their own state.
In the meeting, the Chief Minister also mentioned the cultural identity and glorious traditions of the state. He said that the rivers of Chhattisgarh — Indravati, Mahanadi — are not just water sources, but the soul of the state. He suggested that whenever the Ministry of Defence launches new naval ships or vessels, some of them should be named after the rivers and regions of Chhattisgarh, such as INS Indravati, INS Mahanadi or INS Bastar. This would not only be symbolically beautiful, but would also give pride to the cultural identity of Chhattisgarh at the national and international level.
On this occasion, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai informed about the government’s plan to promote defense and electronics manufacturing under the new industrial policy of the state government. He said that this policy is in line with Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and it will increase opportunities for high-tech training, research and private investment in Chhattisgarh.