CM Vishnu Deo Sai underscored the transformative role of education while addressing the annual conference of the Khadia Scheduled Tribe Upliftment Committee. He emphasized that education is the foundation of progress and urged intellectuals and youth within the community to prioritize learning and guide future generations effectively.
Outlining the path to tribal empowerment,CM Vishnu Deo Sai stressed that true development hinges on the combined progress of education, economic upliftment, and social unity. Reaffirming his government’s dedication to inclusive growth, he assured that the state is poised for remarkable advancement in the coming years. He highlighted education and unity as the driving forces behind the prosperity of society, the state, and the nation.
Reflecting on the Khadia community’s historical milestones, he recalled the pivotal inclusion of the community in the Scheduled Tribe category in 2011 and acknowledged the efforts of former Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh in achieving this recognition.
The event commenced with floral tributes to Goddess Saraswati and freedom fighter Shaheed Telanga Khadia, with distinguished attendees including MLA and Vice President of the Sarguja Region Development Authority Smt. Gomati Sai, former MLA Shri Bharat Sai, and prominent Khadia community leaders.
Unprecedented Development Achievements in Just 13 Months
CM Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted his government’s notable achievements within 13 months, affirming that key commitments under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership have been successfully fulfilled.
He emphasized that in its very first cabinet meeting, the administration approved housing benefits for 1.8 million families under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, ensuring dignified living conditions for thousands.
Addressing the government’s commitment to farmers, he announced that the paddy procurement price has been set at ₹3,100 per quintal, significantly boosting farmers’ income. Over the last two Kharif seasons, farmers have been able to sell paddy at 21 quintals per acre, resulting in substantial financial gains. The state has also recorded an all-time high in paddy procurement, exceeding 14.9 million metric tons this year.
Strengthening Tribal Communities Through Welfare Initiatives
Elaborating on strategic measures for tribal welfare, CM Vishnu Deo Sai noted the increase in the tendu leaf collection rate from ₹4,000 to ₹5,500 per standard bag, directly benefiting thousands of forest dwellers. He also highlighted the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, which has empowered 7 million women by providing ₹1,000 per month for financial independence. Additionally, under the Deendayal Upadhyay Landless Agricultural Laborers Welfare Scheme, ₹10,000 is granted annually to landless farmworkers, ensuring economic security for vulnerable sections.
He also spotlighted the PM Janman Yojana, which is fostering educational and holistic development in tribal areas. To support tribal youth preparing for UPSC and other competitive exams, the government has increased the capacity of the Tribal Youth Hostel in Dwarka, Delhi, from 50 to 185 seats. Moreover, to improve education infrastructure, 341 schools are being upgraded under the PM Shri scheme to match private institutions in quality and facilities.
Call for Unity and Progress
Addressing the gathering, MLA Smt. Gomati Sai emphasized that societies that prioritize education, economic growth, and social cohesion drive real progress. She urged the tribal community to unite in their pursuit of development and ensure holistic growth across all sections.
In a collective commitment to progress, Khadia community members pledged to work together for the betterment of education, employment, and socio-economic development. The event saw the presence of Khadia community leaders, including 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, and a large gathering of esteemed community members.
