CM Vishnu Deo : Chhattisgarh’s economic growth, particularly the rise in farmers’ income, is driving the rapid expansion of the state’s automobile sector”
CM Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the much-anticipated RADA Auto Expo 2025 at Science College Ground in Raipur on January 16. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister reminisced about his early political days, highlighting how he extensively used a motorcycle to connect with people and address their concerns. He stated that Chhattisgarh’s economic growth, particularly the rise in farmers’ income, is driving the rapid expansion of the state’s automobile sector.
“In Chhattisgarh, the increased income of farmers is benefiting the entire economy, including the auto sector. Vehicle numbers have grown significantly, making it imperative for everyone to follow traffic rules for safe transportation,” CM Vishnu Deo Sai emphasised.
Praising the Auto Expo, the Chief Minister revealed that over 10,000 vehicles were sold at last year’s event. This year, the state government has introduced a one-time 50 percent discount on the lifetime road tax for vehicles, a move expected to boost sales to around 20,000 units. He applauded the organisers for offering a platform where vehicles of various categories cater to diverse needs under one roof.
The Chief Minister highlighted Chhattisgarh’s agricultural achievements, noting that 24.72 lakh farmers sold 145 lakh metric tonnes of paddy last year. This year, paddy procurement is projected to reach 160 lakh metric tonnes from over 27 lakh registered farmers. “Farmers are receiving the highest price for paddy, and their prosperity is evident across sectors,” he said.
Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh reflected on Chhattisgarh’s transformation over its 25-year journey. “Once considered economically backward, the state has achieved remarkable milestones. With paddy purchased at Rs. 3,100 per quintal, farmers are prospering, fuelling overall progress,” he said. He also stressed the importance of adhering to road safety measures, noting the rise in accidents despite the state’s rapidly expanding road network.
MP Shri Brijmohan Agrawal highlighted the importance of automobiles in connectivity and economic growth. He commended the state’s initiative to offer a 50 percent road tax discount, benefiting middle-class families while emphasising the need for greater road safety awareness.
The Chief Minister launched the Honda SP 125 and Audi Q7 vehicles at the Auto Expo and honoured individuals for their contributions to road safety. He also unveiled a road safety poster and announced a CSR contribution of Rs. 5 lakh from the Raipur Automobile Dealer Association towards road safety initiatives. In a symbolic gesture, he handed over the first vehicle key to a customer at the expo.
MLA Shri Rajesh Munat, MLA Shri Motilal Sahu, former MLA Shri Rajkamal Singhaniya, Transport Secretary Shri S. Prakash, Additional Transport Commissioner Shri D. Ravishankar, RADA President Shri Ravindra Bhasin, Chhattisgarh Chamber of Commerce President Shri Amar Parwani, and Shri Manish Raj Singhaniya, along with RADA members and the number of public, were present.