TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 6, 2024: Chhattisgarh celebrated its 24th Rajyotsav on Tuesday with Governor Shri Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attending the ceremony. Governor Deka, who was the Chief Guest, expressed pride in the state’s accomplishments, noting its progress in various sectors since its formation. He called on the citizens to commit to preserving the state’s heritage and to work towards making Chhattisgarh a leader among Indian states.
Reflecting on the state’s history, Governor Deka marked the 24th anniversary as a historic milestone, acknowledging the strong foundation laid over the past years. “Today is a day of pride for us all. Over these years, we have laid a strong foundation and are steadily progressing toward our goals,” he said. The Governor also praised Chief Minister Sai for his leadership in initiating welfare schemes, particularly for agriculture, tribal communities, women, and youth.
Shri Deka emphasized Chhattisgarh’s unique cultural identity, shaped by its resources like forests, minerals, and skilled human capital. He urged citizens to use these resources sustainably, contributing collectively to the state’s progress. The Governor also acknowledged the challenges posed by Naxal violence in some regions, but reassured that efforts by both central and state governments, under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, will soon bring peace and development to the state.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, who presided over the event, reflected on Chhattisgarh’s journey from being part of Madhya Pradesh to becoming an independent state. He recalled the hardships faced by farmers in the pre-statehood days and highlighted how the creation of Chhattisgarh brought recognition to its challenges and potential.
During his speech, CM Sai emphasized the importance of culture in the state’s development. He noted the significance of showcasing Chhattisgarh’s folk arts alongside performances from Chhollywood and Bollywood at Rajyotsav. He further emphasized that the state government actively supports local arts, crafts, and festivals, with initiatives like Shilp Grams to promote handicrafts and folk culture.
“Culture is the cornerstone of development,” he said, explaining that the state’s development is guided by its cultural heritage. In line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a “Viksit Chhattisgarh,” the state is focusing on preserving and promoting its natural beauty and cultural sites, including religious places connected to Lord Shri Ram, Mata Shabari, and Mata Kaushalya.
The Chief Minister also highlighted efforts to revive pilgrimage sites like Rajim, Sirpur, and Bhoramdev, and encouraged the promotion of Chhattisgarh’s handicrafts, such as Khadi garments, with special discounts. “The protection and promotion of our culture is the highest priority of the state government,” he concluded.
The event also saw the release of two key publications: the Chhattisgarh Natural Tourism Magazine and the Culture Department’s magazine *Bihaniya*. Dignitaries including Chief Secretary Shri Amitabh Jain and DGP Shri Ashok Juneja were present at the event.
