Introduction

The state of Chhattisgarh was formed on 1 November 2000 under the Madhya Pradesh State Reorganization Act, 2000. Following the formation of the state, a separate revenue and administrative system was established to ensure orderly and decentralized administration. The Chhattisgarh Revenue Board, headquartered in Bilaspur, was effectively operational to oversee and exercise judicial control over revenue matters within the state.

Prior to the formation of Chhattisgarh, the area comprising present-day Chhattisgarh was administered under the jurisdiction of Madhya Pradesh through Divisional Commissioners and District Collectors. After the formation of the state, it was realized that the role of Divisional Commissioners (Revenue Division Commissioners) was essential for effective control of district administration, prompt resolution of local problems, and effective implementation of government policies. Consequently, the state government maintained the system of revenue divisions while further strengthening them.

This system of revenue divisions in the state was implemented with the aim of administrative decentralization, coordination between districts, and effective delivery of public services. Each revenue division oversees the administrative and revenue functions of the districts under its jurisdiction through a divisional commissioner, who serves as a vital link between the state government and the district administration.

Surguja Revenue Division

Headquartered in Ambikapur, Surguja is an important administrative division of the state. Historically, the Surguja region comprised former princely states and territories under British rule. After independence, the Surguja region was incorporated into the state of Madhya Pradesh and later into the state of Chhattisgarh.

Since the formation of the state of Chhattisgarh (in the year 2000), the Surguja Revenue Division has continued to function as the main administrative unit of northern Chhattisgarh. For the effective implementation of government policies and administrative convenience, districts have been reorganized from time to time, resulting in the creation of new districts within the Surguja Division.

Currently, the Surguja Revenue Division includes the districts of Surguja, Balrampur-Ramanujganj, Jashpur, Korea, Surajpur, and Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur. The Divisional Commissioner of Surguja Division effectively oversees district administration, revenue management, law and order coordination, and the implementation of various developmental and public welfare schemes within his jurisdiction.