TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 15, 2024: On the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, celebrated at Science College Ground in Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai paid tribute to the rich history and culture of Chhattisgarh’s tribal communities. He acknowledged the contributions of former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee and current Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in advancing the welfare of the tribal population. The Chief Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to tribal development, citing the allocation of Rs 24,000 crore for the Pradhan Mantri Janman Yojana and Rs 80,000 crore for the Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan aimed at accelerating infrastructure development and the upliftment of tribal areas.
In a special announcement to honor the Baiga, Gunia, and Sirha communities, Shri Sai introduced the Chief Minister’s Samman Nidhi, a financial assistance program providing Rs 5,000 annually to these groups. This initiative comes as part of the ongoing celebrations marking the 150th birth anniversary of Dharti Aba Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Additionally, the Chief Minister revealed the launch of the Akhra Nirman Vikas Yojana, a scheme designed to support religious and auspicious functions in tribal villages, and announced plans to install statues of martyrs from the tribal community at identified sites.
During the event, Shri Sai also recognized the families of tribal martyrs and freedom fighters, honoring their contributions to the state’s history. Winners of the Tribal Painting Competition were also felicitated. The Chief Minister released several publications, including an ‘Atlas‘ on the Forest Rights Act, a ‘Shauryanjali’ calendar, and a book titled ‘Halba Janjati Ki Vachik Paramparayein’, all produced by the Chhattisgarh Tribal Development Department.
In his address, Rajya Sabha MP Shri Arun Singh, who presided over the ceremony, praised the efforts of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai for his leadership in promoting the welfare of all sections of society. He applauded the Chief Minister’s popularity and humility, noting that his leadership exemplifies the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat‘. Shri Singh emphasized the importance of honoring the culture and leaders of the tribal community.
Tribal Development Minister Shri Ram Vichar Netam reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to the tribal community, highlighting the success of the Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which aims to uplift 6,500 tribal villages. He also noted the growing success of the PM Janman Yojana, which is improving the standard of living for tribal families.
The event coincided with the Prime Minister’s inauguration of various development projects worth Rs 6,600 crore for rural and tribal areas, as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Birsa Munda. Speaking at the national event, which was broadcast live, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the government’s dedication to tribal welfare, emphasizing the significant role of tribal communities in India’s freedom struggle and their rightful place in the country’s history.
The ceremony also marked the creation of Birsa Munda Tribal Gardens in various districts and a renewed commitment to adopt the traditions and ideals of tribal society as a foundation for national progress. The event, attended by numerous public representatives and tribal leaders, celebrated the cultural pride and achievements of India’s tribal communities.
