Raipur, December 10, 2024 On the 167th death anniversary of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai paid a heartfelt tribute to the first freedom fighter of Chhattisgarh. Addressing a massive gathering at the Adiwasi Samaj Virat Veer Mela held in Rajarao Pathar, Balod district, the Chief Minister emphasized that history remembers leaders who stand by their people during crises. “Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh’s fight against hunger inspires our government’s commitment to food security and welfare,” he stated.
Key Announcements for Development and Welfare
Development Projects for the Mela Venue
During the event, Chief Minister Sai announced multiple initiatives aimed at boosting infrastructure and community welfare in the region:
- ₹30 lakh allocated for the construction of a Women’s Shelter.
- ₹20 lakh dedicated to setting up proper drinking water facilities at the venue.
- Approval for road and bridge construction from the main route to Rajarao Baba’s site.
Honoring Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh
The Chief Minister revealed plans to install a grand statue of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh at the International Cricket Stadium, Naya Raipur, to honor his legacy.
Achievements in Farmer Welfare
Highlighting his government’s efforts for farmers, Chief Minister Sai provided a comprehensive overview of the initiatives aimed at transforming agricultural practices and improving farmer incomes:
- Farmers were given ₹3,716 crore in bonuses for two years of pending paddy procurement.
- Paddy procurement set at ₹3,100 per quintal, the highest in the nation, with a cap of 21 quintals per acre.
- A record-breaking 145 lakh metric tons of paddy was procured last season, benefiting farmers with a total payout of ₹49,000 crore.
- Tendu leaf collectors received ₹5,500 per standard sack as a collection wage, a significant increase aimed at ensuring economic stability for tribal communities.
Food Security and Tribal Development
The Chief Minister lauded Chhattisgarh’s food security model, which has become a benchmark across India. Key highlights include:
- Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana for the next five years, providing free food grains to 68 lakh families in the state.
- Launch of the PM Janman Yojana, focusing on infrastructure development for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
- Introduction of the Dhartia Abba Tribal Village Utkarshta Abhiyan, which targets the holistic development of 6,691 tribal villages by ensuring basic facilities like roads, clean drinking water, education, healthcare, and electricity.
Vision 2047: A Developed Chhattisgarh
Chief Minister Sai reiterated his government’s vision to make Chhattisgarh a developed state by 2047, aligning with the aspirations of a developed India. The roadmap prioritizes inclusive growth, ensuring that tribal communities, farmers, and laborers are central to the state’s progress.
A Tribute to Legacy
The event began with the Chief Minister offering floral tributes to the statue of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh and performing traditional rituals in honor of tribal deities. His speech celebrated the martyr’s contributions, stating, “Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh’s sacrifice was not just for freedom but also to fight hunger and injustice. This struggle resonates in our efforts to ensure no one in Chhattisgarh goes to bed hungry.”
Key Dignitaries Present
The event witnessed the participation of prominent leaders and representatives:
- Asharam Netam, MLA from Kanker
- Sangeeta Sinha, MLA from Sanjari Balod
- Former Union Minister Arvind Netam
- Former ST Commission Chairperson Nandkumar Sai
- Other public representatives and senior officials
Conclusion
The Virat Veer Mela was not just a cultural celebration but a reaffirmation of Chhattisgarh’s commitment to its roots and vision for the future. As the state advances with a clear developmental agenda, the legacy of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh serves as a beacon of inspiration. Chief Minister Sai’s announcements underline the government’s dedication to ensuring that every citizen, especially those from tribal and rural areas, benefits from progress.
With these focused initiatives, Chhattisgarh is well on its way to becoming a model state for inclusive development.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
Authentic news.
