TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 14, 2025: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai underscored the transformative power of education and unity while addressing the annual conference of the Khadia Scheduled Tribe Upliftment Committee. Speaking to community intellectuals and youth, the Chief Minister emphasized that education is the cornerstone of societal progress and called for greater efforts to prioritize education and guide future generations.
Highlighting the roadmap for tribal empowerment, CM Sai stated that true progress requires the simultaneous advancement of education, economic empowerment, and social unity. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to uplifting all sections of society, assuring that the state is on the path to unparalleled development in the coming years. “Education and unity are the driving forces behind the prosperity of society, the state, and the nation,” he said.
Reflecting on the Khadia community’s historical journey, CM Sai recalled the significant 2011 decision to officially recognize the community as a Scheduled Tribe, praising former Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh for his pivotal role in this achievement.
The event began with floral tributes to Goddess Saraswati and the freedom fighter Shaheed Telanga Khadia. Key attendees included MLA and Vice President of the Sarguja Region Development Authority, Smt. Gomati Sai, former MLA Shri Bharat Sai, and other prominent leaders of the Khadia community.
Key Achievements in Just 13 Months
During his address, CM Sai highlighted the landmark achievements of his government within a mere 13 months. He outlined several initiatives, including the decision to provide housing benefits to 1.8 million families under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, ensuring dignified living for lakhs of families.
In a strong commitment to farmers’ welfare, he announced that the state had set a new record in paddy procurement, surpassing 14.9 million metric tons this year. The government also set the paddy procurement price at ₹3,100 per quintal, which has empowered farmers with better income opportunities, particularly benefiting those who sold paddy at an average rate of 21 quintals per acre over the past two Kharif seasons.
Empowering Tribal Communities through Welfare Initiatives
CM Sai also outlined the strategic measures for the upliftment of tribal communities, highlighting increased welfare benefits. The tendu leaf collection rate has been raised from ₹4,000 to ₹5,500 per standard bag, benefiting lakhs of forest dwellers and tendu leaf collectors. Additionally, the Mahatari Vandan Yojana has empowered 7 million women by providing ₹1,000 per month in financial assistance for their economic independence.
Through the Deendayal Upadhyay Landless Agricultural Laborers Welfare Scheme, ₹10,000 is being provided annually to landless agricultural workers, offering crucial support to the most vulnerable sections of society.
Furthermore, CM Sai spotlighted the PM Janman Yojana, which is fostering holistic development and educational empowerment in tribal areas. For tribal youth aspiring for competitive exams like the UPSC, the number of seats in the Tribal Youth Hostel in Dwarka, Delhi, has been expanded from 50 to 185, providing greater opportunities for higher education and career advancement. Additionally, 341 schools in the state are being upgraded under the PM Shri scheme, ensuring world-class infrastructure and bringing them on par with private institutions.
MLA Smt. Gomati Sai Calls for Unity and Progress
MLA Smt. Gomati Sai, in her address, stressed the importance of education, economic growth, and social solidarity for true progress. She urged the tribal community to remain united in their pursuit of development, ensuring the collective advancement of all sections of society.
The event concluded with a collective pledge from the Khadia community members to work together for the betterment of education, employment, and overall socio-economic development. Key leaders present included state president Shri Madan Nayak, district patron Shri Bodh Sai Manjhi, district general secretary Shri Kripal Manjhi, district vice president Shri Ramsagar Soreng, Shri Bal Kumar Pradhan, and a large gathering of distinguished community members.
