TFP Bureau, Raipur, April 14, 2025: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai highlighted the vital role of the Chhattisgarh Khadi and Village Industries Board in advancing the vision of a self-reliant India and promoting the “Local for Vocal” movement during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Board Chairman, Shri Rakesh Pandey. The event was held at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in the state capital.
Congratulating Shri Pandey on his new role, the Chief Minister praised his long-standing contribution to organizational work and expressed confidence that his experience would strengthen the functioning and outreach of the Khadi Board. “The Board plays a crucial part in generating local employment, supporting artisans, and creating sustainable livelihoods through traditional industries,” Shri Sai said.
Empowering Rural Women Through Bamboo Crafts
Marking the occasion, bamboo toolkits were distributed to ten women beneficiaries under the National Bamboo Mission. CM Sai emphasized the economic potential of bamboo-based products, noting that items such as crash barriers, bouquets, and decorative pieces are now being produced at the village level and even receiving national recognition. He referred to a village in Bemetara district known for crafting tall bamboo towers and barriers, a model praised by Union Transport Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari.
Recalling a recent visit by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Bastar, the CM shared how a bamboo bouquet gifted by a women’s self-help group left a lasting impression. He encouraged artisans to experiment with color and design to enhance the visual appeal and market value of their products.
MoU Signed to Launch Atal Panchayat Digital Suvidha Kendras
Reinforcing the government’s commitment to digital empowerment in rural areas, the Chief Minister also announced the signing of an MoU between Common Service Center (CSC) providers and sarpanches to establish Atal Panchayat Digital Suvidha Kendras in 1,460 gram panchayats. These centers, set to launch on April 24 (Panchayat Day), will offer services such as financial transactions and certificate issuance, reducing villagers’ dependence on block or district headquarters. He assured that the initiative would expand to all panchayats in phases.
Leaders Call for Khadi in Every Household
Cabinet Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam addressed the gathering, calling for a renewed movement to bring Khadi into every home. He, along with several political leaders and dignitaries present—including Raipur MP Shri Brijmohan Agarwal, former ministers and MPs, and officials from various boards and commissions—extended their best wishes to Shri Rakesh Pandey for his new role.
The event concluded with a collective call to enhance the visibility and viability of Khadi and village industries, not only as cultural symbols but as powerful tools for economic transformation and rural upliftment.
