TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 23, 2025: In a vibrant gathering marked by cultural pride and community solidarity, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday attended the Gond Yuvak-Yuvti Parichay Sammelan, organised by the Chhattisgarh Gond Samaj Kalyan Samiti at Gondwana Bhavan in Tikarapara, Raipur. The event brought together members of the Gond community from various parts of the state for a day of cultural celebration, social interaction and recognition of tribal heritage.
In keeping with traditional rituals, the Chief Minister was welcomed with customary honours and began the programme by offering prayers to Bhagwan Budhadev. He announced a financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to support the Gond community’s social, cultural and developmental activities, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening tribal society.
During the programme, the Chief Minister released two books authored by Vikas Markam, Chairperson of the Chhattisgarh Tribal Local Health Traditions and Medicinal Plants Board. Titled Adivasi Itihasic Nirantarata se Vartamaan Chunautiyon Tak and Virāsat ka Samman: Vaishvik Drishtikon par Sawaal, the books explore the historical evolution of tribal society and contemporary challenges, while highlighting the significance of safeguarding indigenous knowledge and cultural identity.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the Gond community holds a distinguished place in the state’s cultural and historical landscape. He stated that the Central Government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has consistently demonstrated deep respect and sensitivity towards the welfare of tribal communities. The presence of a tribal representative in the highest constitutional office of the country, he said, is a powerful testament to this commitment.
He highlighted major initiatives such as the PM Janman Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Dharati Aaba Gram Utkarsh Yojana, which aim to promote the comprehensive development of tribal communities, including Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). The Chief Minister also emphasised that efforts are underway to ensure that welfare schemes reach every eligible household, strengthening the pillars of education, health, livelihood and cultural preservation.
The Chief Minister urged the gathering to visit the Tribal Museum in Nava Raipur, noting that it is an important space that preserves and narrates the stories of tribal heroes, their struggles and contributions. He said that the celebration of Tribal Pride Day on the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda has become a meaningful platform to honour tribal legacy and foster cultural revival.
Speaking about the significance of community interactions, Shri Sai said youth introduction programmes such as the Gond Yuvak-Yuvti Parichay Sammelan play an essential role in strengthening social cohesion, helping young people connect with their roots while building meaningful relationships that contribute to stronger community structures.
Author Vikas Markam, speaking at the event, reflected on the Gond community’s rich heritage, recounting the pivotal roles played by Gond rulers in administration, governance and cultural preservation across different eras. He said that under the leadership of the Double-Engine Government, the empowerment of tribal communities has been accorded top priority, resulting in better access to welfare schemes and greater participation in developmental initiatives. He called upon the community to embrace unity, innovation and collective progress to meet contemporary challenges.
The event was attended by several community leaders, including Samiti President Jaggu Singh, Vice-President Kishore Dhruv, Sewaram Dhruv, Hari Singh Thakur and other prominent members of the Gond community. The programme concluded with cultural presentations and interactions among youth and community elders, reflecting the enduring vitality of tribal traditions and aspirations.
