Ramgarh's historic, cultural and archaeological heritage will be given a new identity on the world stage - Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sia

Ramgarh's historic, cultural and archaeological heritage will be given a new identity on the world stage - Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sia Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sia's dignified presence marked the grand conclusion of Ramgarh Mahotsav-2026. An announcement of Rs 1 crore for the development of Ramgarh and the formation of a municipal council by merging Udypur and Dumaradhih was made. The Chief Minister facilitated school admission for six Hill Korwa children and honoured tourism influencers. Raipur, June 30 2026 – Ramgarh is not only a cultural event centre but a vivid symbol of Chhattisgarh's proud tradition, nature worship, faith, history and cultural consciousness. This sacred land of Surguja is an invaluable heritage of India's rich cultural legacy along with natural beauty. Numerous ancient texts mention Ramgarh, confirming its historic significance. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sia addressed the closing ceremony of the historic two‑day Ramgarh Mahotsav-2026 in Surguja district today. He said that, according to folklore, Lord Rama, Mother Sita and Lakshman spent time in this region during their exile in Treta Yuga. The Sitabengra cave remains a major centre of devotion and faith, and the winds and stones of Ramgarh still echo the Ramayana. He added that Sitabengra cave is considered one of India's oldest theatres where cultural events and performances were held thousands of years ago. Jogi Mara cave is world‑famous for its ancient mural art. Natural rock formations such as Hathi Pol and the ancient craftsmanship here testify to our rich cultural heritage. The Chief Minister noted that the great poet Kalidasa mentioned composing Meghaduta in this area, further enhancing Ramgarh's literary importance. He said the state government is committed to giving national and international recognition to historic sites like Ramgarh, Sitabengra and Jogi Mara. Tourist facilities are being expanded so that visitors from India and abroad can become familiar with the region's history, culture and natural beauty. He promised that the grandeur with which this year's Ramgarh Mahotsav was organised will be replicated annually. He stated that in the past two and a half years, development works worth more than Rs 2,387 crore have been approved in Surguja district. The dream of permanent housing for people is rapidly materialising; 1.8 million families have received approval under the Prime Minister's Housing Scheme and about 1,600 houses are being completed daily. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance, Home Minister Amit Shah's determination and the indomitable courage of security forces for decisive successes against Naxalism in Bastar. Resettled Naxalites and families of Special Backward Tribes are also being provided housing. He announced that rice is being purchased from farmers at Rs 3,100 per quintal for 21 quintals. A two‑year pending bonus was given to 1.3 million farmers. Under the Mother Worship Scheme, Rs 1,000 is being deposited monthly in women’s accounts. Under the Ram Lalla Darshan Scheme, more than 49,000 devotees have been taken to Ayodhya. The Pilgrimage Darshan Scheme now includes 19 major pilgrimage sites across the country where senior citizens can visit as per their wishes. He said recruitment processes are continuously being conducted across departments for youth, and a Chief Minister Helpline has been launched for speedy resolution of public grievances. On this occasion, Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sia announced a grant of Rs 1 crore for Ramgarh's development and also declared the formation of a municipal council by merging Udypur and Dumaradhih as demanded by locals. Tourism and Culture Minister Rajesh Agarwal said the Ramgarh Mahotsav is a powerful medium for preserving and promoting our rich cultural heritage, folk arts and proud traditions, connecting the new generation with their culture and elevating the region's cultural identity to new heights. Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam extended best wishes for the Mahotsav, noting that this festival, running for about 50 years, is of great historic, mythological and archaeological importance. The Chief Minister facilitated school admission for six Hill Korwa children and honoured tourism influencers. He performed the school admission ceremony for six children of the Scheduled Tribe Hill Korwa community, applying tilak, serving sweets and providing school bags, water bottles and study material, wishing them a bright future. He also toured various tourist spots in Surguja district from June 26 to 30, presenting certificates to tourism influencers preparing special documentaries. The closing ceremony was attended by MLA Prabodh Minj, MLA Ramkumar Toppo, MLA Shakuntala Porte, MLA Udeshwari Pingara, Chairman of Chhattisgarh State Youth Commission Vishv Vijay Singh Tomar, other officials, representatives and a large number of citizens.