Mahatma Gandhi not only worked for India's independence but also to bring about changes in the lives of people, mainly ‘Gram Suraj’, self-reliance, untouchability, women emancipation and cleanliness and health, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said on Friday.

He was laying the foundation stone for the Mahatma Gandhi Horticulture and Forestry University at Sankara-Patan virtually from his residence-cum-office, an official communication said.

He also dedicated and laid the foundation stone of 39 developmental works for Durg and Bhilai.

Recalling former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, Baghel said he took over reins of the country during a challenging period and provided an able leadership. He gave the slogan of ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’.

He said the Chhattisgarh government has been working to give further momentum to the ideals of these great souls.

The Chief Minister said cattle protection, rural self-reliance, loan waiver of farmers, godhan scheme and Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay scheme are being implemented.

He said Patan has been the centre of freedom fighters as in each village a statue of the Mahatma Gandhi exists. He announced Rs 2.5 crore for establishment of oxy-zone and library along with upgrading the Durg Stadium, Collectorate building and premises.

The Chief Minister announced a 10 percent special rebate on all materials produced by Gramudyog to mark the 151th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

He announced nine Sale Centres at Raipur, Durg, Bilaspur, Ambikapur, Jagdalpur, Baikunthpur (Korea), Korba, Rajnandaon, Sakti (Janjgir-Champa) and Dantewada in cooperation with the National Federation of Farmers’ Procurement, Processing and Retailing Cooperatives of India Ltd.

Cabinet ministers and senior officials were present during the event. Baghel also interacted with Bihan Women SHG members and farmers. He felicitated the corona    warriors of Durg virtually.