Raipur, November , 2024: Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai was warmly welcomed in true Bastar tradition during his visit to Chitrakote for the Bastar Region Tribal Development Authority meeting. Tribal folk dance troupes performed captivating routines, and local representatives honored the CM by adorning him with the traditional *Gaur Singh Mukut* (a ceremonial crown).
### **Experience Zone Showcasing Bastar’s Rich Culture**
To commemorate the event, an experience zone themed around the *Bastar Haat* was organized, highlighting various development initiatives and cultural displays from Bastar’s seven districts—Bastar, Kondagaon, Dantewada, Kanker, Narayanpur, Sukma, and Bijapur. The event provided an overview of regional achievements, innovations, and government schemes through informative stalls.
### **Highlight: The Journey of Bastar Coffee**
The Bastar district stall showcased the fascinating journey of *Bastar Coffee*. The exhibit detailed every step, from harvesting fresh cherries to washing, roasting, grinding, and packaging coffee. The *Bastar Café* initiative, designed to promote local economic activities, was prominently featured. Efforts to establish Bastar Coffee as a national and international brand were also highlighted.
### **Art and Innovation Meet in Kondagaon**
Kondagaon district’s stall demonstrated a harmonious blend of traditional artistry and modern development. The famed *Jhitku Mitki Artisan Producer* displayed a bell-metal sculpture inspired by the architecture of Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Temple. Other highlights included tourism development projects, garment factories providing employment, and the *Mawa Kondanar* mobile app for transparent administration and citizen services.
### **Education Innovations in Dantewada**
Dantewada district’s focus on education and child development was evident. Through the *Bal Mitra* program, out-of-school children were integrated into the education system. Initiatives like *Bal Mitra Libraries* and leadership training for children through panchayats showcased a holistic approach to youth empowerment.
### **Kanker: Livelihood Through Forest Produce**
Kanker district emphasized livelihood generation through minor forest produce and horticulture projects. The *Fresh Custard Apple* project has become a primary income source for farmers and self-help groups. Initiatives in fish farming, *Kadaknath* poultry farming, and nutrition-focused employment opportunities were also highlighted.
### **Narayanpur: Women’s Empowerment at the Forefront**
Narayanpur district presented groundbreaking work in women’s empowerment. Self-help groups led by women showcased products like herbal *gulal*, mushroom farming, and *Kadaknath* and quail poultry rearing. These activities have fostered economic independence for women and demonstrated innovative approaches to agriculture and nutrition.
### **Sukma: Infrastructure and Housing Progress**
Sukma district’s stall focused on infrastructure and rural development. Initiatives under the *Hakkum Mel* program for improved transportation, housing projects under the PMAY scheme, and the *Lakhpati Didi Yojana* were showcased as transformative steps towards economic empowerment for women-led groups.
### **Bijapur: Peace and Progress through ‘Niyad Nellanar’**
Bijapur district highlighted the success of the *Niyad Nellanar* program in Maoist-affected regions. The scheme focuses on improving education, healthcare, and employment opportunities by utilizing local resources and promoting technical advancements. The stall also shed light on efforts to boost tourism by leveraging the district’s natural beauty.
### **A Unified Vision for Bastar**
The event underscored the state government’s commitment to creating a holistic development model for Bastar. From preserving cultural heritage to implementing forward-thinking initiatives, Bastar is poised for a brighter and more prosperous future under these efforts.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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