Chhattisgarh CM requests Rajnath to expedite army cantonment set up at Bilaspur

The CM further stated that Chhattisgarh is keen on setting up an army camp at Chakarbhata, Bilaspur from employment and security purposes.

Published on: Feb 21, 2021, 12:06:49 IST

By Ritesh Mishra | Edited by Abhinav Sahay, Raipur

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Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel has requested defence minister Rajnath Singh to expedite setting up of an army cantonment in Bilaspur for which the state claims to have provided about 1000 acres of land.

Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel said that this delay in the process of lifting rice by the FCI affected paddy procurement drive. (Videograb)

“Initially, the requirement of an airstrip was stated for setting up the army cantonment. In view of the aviation requirements of the region, the state government has developed the airstrip and completed the necessary procedure. The Bilasabai Caveen Airport, Bilaspur is now recognized by DGCA in 3C VFR category and is available for civil aviation and the army’s use,” a press release issued by Chhattisgarh government quoting CM’s letter stated.

The CM further stated that Chhattisgarh is keen on setting up an army camp at Chakarbhata, Bilaspur.

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“The establishment of army cantonment in the state will not only speed up the proper development of this area, but also provide employment opportunities to the youth of the state. The presence of army cantonment in the state is also expected to help in the eradication of Maoist extremism,” the letter stated.

Baghel requested for fast tracking the process of establishing the cantonment and assured that other related requirements of the MoD and the army will be taken care of by the state government.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ritesh Mishra
Ritesh Mishra is the State Correspondent for Chhattisgarh with Hindustan Times. He reports on Maoism, internal security, politics, mining, governance, and major developments shaping the state. Based in Raipur, he has covered Chhattisgarh since 2016, reporting extensively from the Bastar region and other conflict-affected areas. With nearly two decades of experience in journalism, Ritesh has built a reputation for ground reporting from some of India's most challenging terrains. His coverage spans Left-Wing Extremism, counter-insurgency operations, elections, tribal affairs, environmental issues, infrastructure, mining, and socio-economic developments. He has reported on major security operations, policy initiatives, wildlife crime, and the changing dynamics of conflict and development in Central India. Before moving to Chhattisgarh, Ritesh spent eight years reporting from Madhya Pradesh, covering politics, administration, crime, development, and social issues. Throughout his career, he has reported on various forms of extremism in Central India, combining field reporting with in-depth analysis to produce accurate, balanced, and impactful journalism. Prior to joining Hindustan Times, Ritesh worked with The Pioneer and The Free Press Journal, where he covered a wide range of beats and honed his skills in political, investigative, and field reporting. His reporting is marked by exclusive stories, extensive fieldwork, and a commitment to factual, on-the-ground journalism that brings complex issues to a wider audience.Read More

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