Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai participated in the naming ceremony and inauguration of the newly constructed convention center in Risdi, Korba. The event also included the unveiling of a statue and the launch of development projects worth ₹223 crore. The convention center was named after Mata Ahilyabai Holkar, and her statue was unveiled at the entrance. During his address, Chief Minister Sai highlighted the significant development initiatives underway in Korba, including road projects worth ₹145 crore, aimed at improving connectivity. He announced plans to make the convention center air-conditioned, emphasizing its capacity to host large events and benefit the residents of Korba. He also praised the Housing Board for its construction of the convention center. Reflecting on his visit six months prior, the Chief Minister noted that over ₹600 crore had been allocated for various development projects. He also acknowledged the unveiling of the statue of Lokmata Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, recognizing her contributions to justice, her efforts in developing religious sites, and the request for establishing an aluminum park in Korba, promising necessary action.
Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao addressed the gathering, celebrating the historic day with the unveiling of the statue and the renaming of the convention center after Mata Ahilyabai Holkar. He emphasized her work in promoting women’s education, empowerment, and her contributions to the nation’s religious sites. Minister of Industries, Commerce, and Labour, Lakhanlal Dewangan, lauded Chief Minister Sai’s development efforts over the past 16 months, emphasizing his commitment to fulfilling promises and improving the welfare of the poor. He mentioned the recent allocation of over ₹650 crore for Korba’s development and requested the Chief Minister’s support for the establishment of an aluminum park in Korba.
Collector Basant also highlighted the contributions of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar, focusing on her governance and educational achievements. Present at the event were Katghora MLA Prem Chand Patel, Chairman of the Housing Board Anurag Singhdev, District Panchayat President Dr. Pawan Singh Kanwar, Mayor Sanju Devi Rajput, and others. The Chief Minister also expressed condolences for the victims of the plane crash en route from Gujarat to London.