Education and Unity: The Key to Societal, State, and National Prosperity: CM Sai
Raipur, February 14
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized the transformative power of education while addressing the annual conference of the Khadia Scheduled Tribe Upliftment Committee. He asserted that education serves as the cornerstone of progress for any society and urged community intellectuals and youth to prioritize education while providing proper guidance to future generations.
Highlighting the roadmap for tribal empowerment, Chief Minister Sai stated that true progress can only be achieved through the simultaneous advancement of education, economic empowerment, and social unity. He reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to the upliftment of every section of society and assured that the state is on the path to unprecedented development in the coming years. He underscored that education and unity are the fundamental pillars that drive the prosperity of society, the state, and the nation.
Reflecting on the historical journey of the Khadia community, he recalled the pivotal decision in 2011 when the community was officially included in the Scheduled Tribe category. He also acknowledged the instrumental role of former Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh in securing this recognition.
The event commenced with floral tributes to Goddess Saraswati and the revered freedom fighter, Shaheed Telanga Khadia. The occasion witnessed the esteemed presence of MLA and Vice President of the Sarguja Region Development Authority, Smt. Gomati Sai, former MLA Shri Bharat Sai, and several prominent leaders of the Khadia community.
*Unprecedented Development Achievements in Just 13 Months*
During his address, Chief Minister Sai outlined the landmark achievements of his government within just 13 months, emphasizing that the administration has successfully implemented the guarantees of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
He highlighted that in the very first cabinet meeting after assuming office, the government took a decisive step to provide housing benefits to 1.8 million families under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, ensuring a dignified living for lakhs of beneficiaries.
Underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to farmers’ welfare, the Chief Minister stated that the paddy procurement price has been set at ₹3,100 per quintal, empowering farmers with better income opportunities. Over the past two Kharif seasons, farmers have been able to sell paddy at a rate of 21 quintals per acre, leading to substantial financial gains. The state has set a new record in paddy procurement, surpassing 14.9 million metric tons this year.
*Empowering Tribal Communities Through Concrete Welfare Initiatives*
Chief Minister Sai detailed the strategic measures undertaken for the upliftment of tribal communities, focusing on sustainable development and economic empowerment. The tendu leaf collection rate has been increased from ₹4,000 to ₹5,500 per standard bag, directly benefiting lakhs of forest dwellers and tendu leaf collectors. 7 million women have been empowered through the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, which provides ₹1,000 per month in financial assistance to ensure their economic independence. Under the Deendayal Upadhyay Landless Agricultural Laborers Welfare Scheme, ₹10,000 is provided annually to landless agricultural workers, offering a crucial safety net to the most vulnerable sections of society.
Chief Minister Shri Sai also shed light on the PM Janman Yojana which is driving holistic development and educational empowerment in tribal areas. Recognizing the aspirations of tribal youth preparing for UPSC and other competitive exams, he said that the number of seats in the Tribal Youth Hostel in Dwarka, Delhi, has been increased from 50 to 185, ensuring greater opportunities for higher education and career advancement. Additionally, to enhance the quality of education in the state, 341 schools are being integrated under the PM Shri scheme, equipping them with world-class infrastructure and educational resources, bringing them at par with private institutions.
*Call for Unity and Progress: MLA Smt. Gomati Sai*
Addressing the gathering, MLA Smt. Gomati Sai emphasized that societies which prioritize education, economic growth, and social solidarity pave the way for true progress. She called upon the tribal community to stand united in their pursuit of advancement, ensuring holistic development across all sections of society.
In a resounding commitment to progress, the assembled members of the Khadia community pledged to work collectively for the betterment of education, employment, and overall socio-economic development. The event was graced by the presence of Khadia community’s state president Shri Madan Nayak, district patron Shri Bodh Sai Manjhi, District general secretary Shri Kripal Manjhi, District vice president Shri Ramsagar Soreng, Shri Bal Kumar Pradhan, along with a large gathering of distinguished community members.