Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has urged Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to set up the promised Army cantonment at Bilaspur at the earliest, pointing out that about 1,000 acres of land have been allotted to the Defence Ministry for this.
In a communication to the Minister, Bagthel also said that the state government was ready to consider other requirements of both the Defence Ministry and the Army. "I look forward to your cooperation."
Initially, the need for an airstrip was stated for setting up the cantonment. He said the state has developed an airstrip and the Bilasa Bai Kevatin Airport in Bilaspur is now recognized by the DGCA in 3C VFR category.
The Chief Minister said his government was keen on setting up an army hub at Chakrabhata in Bilaspur.
The establishment of the cantonment in the state will provide opportunities for Army service to the youths in Chhattisgarh. It will also help eradicate Maoist extremism, he added.