Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the new building of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly at Nava Raipur today, marking a milestone in the state’s 25-year journey. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister described the inauguration as a golden beginning for Chhattisgarh’s development and expressed his deep emotional connection with the state, recalling his time working here in its formative years. He congratulated the people and government of Chhattisgarh on the occasion of its Silver Jubilee, noting that the new Assembly represents 25 years of public aspiration, struggle, and pride. The Prime Minister paid tribute to Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose visionary leadership led to the creation of Chhattisgarh in 2000, calling the new building a realisation of Atal Ji’s dream of a self-confident and progressive state. Prime Minister Modi also unveiled Atal Ji’s statue within the new complex and said, “Atal Ji, your dream is coming true — Chhattisgarh is filled with self-confidence and scaling new heights of development.” Highlighting the state’s democratic journey, Shri Modi recalled the first Assembly session held at Jashpur Hall, Rajkumar College, Raipur, in 2000 with limited resources but great determination. He noted that the new modern, digital, and self-reliant building reflects the growth and maturity of Chhattisgarh’s democracy over the past 25 years. Calling the Assembly a pilgrimage site of democracy, the Prime Minister said every pillar symbolises transparency, every corridor accountability, and every chamber the voice of the people. He expressed confidence that decisions taken here would shape the destiny of Chhattisgarh for decades, serving as a centre for policy and progress. Referring to 2025 as the Amrit Year of the Indian Republic, Shri Modi paid homage to members of the Constituent Assembly from the region—Ravishankar Shukla, Thakur Chedilal, Ghanshyam Singh Gupta, Kishori Mohan Tripathi, Ramprasad Potai, and Raghuraj Singh—who played vital roles in drafting India’s Constitution under Dr B. R. Ambedkar. The Prime Minister remarked that the new Assembly embodies Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural heritage, featuring Bastar art, tributes to Guru Ghasidas Ji, Mata Shabari, Sant Kabir, and Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya Ji’s teachings. He said each element reflects inclusivity, fearlessness, and public service — the essence of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. Describing India as the Mother of Democracy, he noted that tribal communities have upheld democratic traditions for generations, citing the Muriya Darbar of Bastar as an ancient example of grassroots democracy — a tradition now represented in the new Assembly complex. The Prime Minister praised Dr Raman Singh, Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, as an example of commitment and leadership that strengthens democratic institutions. He also cited Rashtrakavi Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala’, saying the new building symbolises Nav Swar — blending heritage with new aspirations. Reiterating that “Nagarik Devo Bhava” is the guiding principle of governance, Shri Modi urged legislators to ensure that every law and decision made in the Assembly benefits citizens, reduces bureaucratic hurdles, and strengthens reform. He further said Chhattisgarh, considered the maternal home of Lord Shri Ram, must embody Ram Rajya values of good governance, justice, and compassion. Referring to Operation Sindoor, he highlighted India’s progress in defeating terrorism and Naxalism, noting that the state has transformed from a region once associated with backwardness and conflict to one symbolising prosperity, security, and peace. Emphasising that Chhattisgarh’s Silver Jubilee marks a new beginning, the Prime Minister said the state will play a key role in achieving the goal of a Developed India by 2047. He urged legislators to set benchmarks for innovation, dialogue, and excellence in governance that inspire other states. Concluding his address, Shri Modi stated that the greatness of the new Assembly lies not in its grandeur but in the welfare-oriented decisions made within it. He called on all representatives to uphold duty above all and dedicate themselves to public service in this Amrit Year of the Indian Republic. The ceremony was attended by Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Assembly Speaker Dr Raman Singh, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Union Minister Tokan Sahu, and other distinguished guests.