RAIPUR,INDIA: Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration and Development Minister Arun Sao emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of municipal body employees during the Chhattisgarh Municipal Body Officer-Employee Conference at Late Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium, Raipur. The event marked the first state-level convention organized by urban body officer-employee associations. Sao also inaugurated an EV fast charging station during the program.

Addressing the gathering, Sao highlighted the government’s efforts to prioritize the welfare of municipal employees. In the past year, 353 new posts were approved to address pending compassionate appointments, with instructions for completion by January 10. Promotion processes have also been expedited, resulting in 36 employees being promoted to Chief Municipal Officer (CMO), with similar action underway for other posts.

He pledged the release of ₹373 crore for employee salaries in the past year, with an additional ₹51.77 crore recently sanctioned for pending payments. Sao assured employees of ongoing discussions with the Finance Department regarding arrears related to OPS and pay scales. Efforts are also being made to re-classify and strengthen urban bodies to improve their functionality.

Highlighting the critical role of municipal employees, Sao urged them to view city residents as their extended family, fostering a deeper connection with their responsibilities. He encouraged attendees to leave the convention with renewed energy and a commitment to strengthening urban bodies and implementing government schemes effectively.

Raipur MP Brijmohan Agarwal acknowledged the challenges faced by civic employees and suggested periodic training for capacity building. MLA Sunil Soni commended the crucial role of municipal staff in maintaining cleanliness, beauty, and convenience in cities. He emphasized the importance of timely completion of priority projects to ensure good governance and citizen satisfaction.