Special Focus on Bastar Division in New Industrial Policy: CM Sai

Raipur, 14 September
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today participated in the Thakur Joharni program organized by the tribal community in Narharpur, Kanker district. On this occasion, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Mr. Arjun Munda, was also present.
During the event, CM Sai offered prayers to the tribal deities, invoking blessings for peace, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized that the new industrial policy prioritizes tribal development, with special focus on Bastar and Surguja regions, aiming to generate employment and self-employment opportunities for local residents.
The program was held at the Unmukt Sports Ground in Narharpur block headquarters. CM Sai greeted the crowd with traditional chants praising the tribal deities and extended his best wishes for Thakur Joharni and Nawakhai festivals. He stated that this unique cultural tradition of the tribal community should be preserved and that their unity must be maintained.
CM Sai highlighted that the New Education Policy has been implemented across Chhattisgarh to ensure that the state’s youth progress and receive quality education. He noted that national-level institutions like IIT, IIM, and IIIT are operating in the state to provide employment-oriented education. He also mentioned continuous improvements through institutions like Prayas and Eklavya schools, the operation of a Tribal Youth Hostel in Delhi, and the establishment of Nalanda campuses across the state.
Speaking on security and anti-Maoist operations, CM Sai noted that the security forces are achieving significant successes and reiterated his government’s commitment to eliminate Maoist presence by 31 March 2026.
He further shared that, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, the state government is connecting people with livelihood activities such as animal husbandry and poultry farming with support from the National Dairy Development Board. Other key initiatives include:
Increased remuneration for tendu leaf collectors
Distribution of Charan Padukas (footwear)
Ram Lalla Darshan Scheme
Establishment of Atal Digital Seva Kendras to promote transparency and efficiency in village panchayats
The state government is actively implementing the PM Janman Yojana and Dharti Aba Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan to ensure inclusive and sustainable development of tribal communities.
Former Jharkhand CM Mr. Arjun Munda, present as the special guest, addressed the gathering and said that this is a celebration of identity and culture. He acknowledged the unique existence of tribal communities who live in harmony with water, forest, and land, and uphold traditions through folk dances, songs, and traditional instruments like mandar and mridang. He emphasized the need to remain rooted in tradition while being aware of health, education, and rights.