Raipur, Aug 22: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai in a programme at the Krishak Auditorium of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya in Raipur on Saturday, emphasised that education remains the cornerstone of societal progress. Addressing the gathering, he stated that community development hinges on education, values, and opportunities provided to youth, adding that ensuring every child receives quality education is a collective responsibility.

Chief Minister Sai paid tribute to nature and eminent historical personalities, noting that great leaders such as Sant Gahira Guru showed the path of education, service, and unity. Administering the oath to the newly elected office-bearers, he urged them to work dedicatedly toward educational, social, economic, and cultural advancement. He highlighted that the unanimous election of all representatives reflects strong organizational strength, recalling how elders had worked continuously to consolidate unity over the years. He also welcomed representatives attending the event from Maharashtra.

Chief Minister Sai announced funds exceeding ₹1.55 crore for the construction, development, and renovation of community infrastructure. The allocation includes ₹70 lakh for facilities at the newly constructed Bhawan in Labhandi, Raipur, ₹25 lakh for a venue in Chhuriya, and assistance ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh for regional community buildings across Tamora, Khairjhiti, Nartora, Jhalap, and Jojra.

Calling upon senior members to prioritize education and assist talented students from underprivileged backgrounds, Chief Minister Sai remarked that education should extend beyond government job aspirations to open doors in entrepreneurship, business, industry, and public service. He highlighted that 17 Prayas schools are actively functioning across Chhattisgarh to coach students for competitive examinations and higher education.

Highlighting state welfare measures, Chief Minister Sai stated that 6,661 villages across Chhattisgarh have been integrated under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. Under the PM-JANMAN scheme, key rural infrastructure—including housing, roads, power, and water supply—is expanding rapidly for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Out of 4,000 km of roads sanctioned nationally under the initiative, over 2,000 km are being built in Chhattisgarh, alongside 57 dedicated ambulances to boost healthcare delivery.

He noted that Bastar is undergoing transformation as Naxalism recedes. Through the Niyad Nellanar initiative, basic infrastructure has reached over 500 villages in the past 2.5 years. Over 34 lakh health screenings have taken place in the region, leading to advanced treatment referrals for more than 40,000 individuals suffering from chronic or severe ailments. He added that improved security and infrastructure are unlocking new avenues in trade, self-employment, and entrepreneurship, backed by new irrigation projects worth over ₹11,000 crore approved to boost agriculture.

Participating in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ environmental campaign, Chief Minister Sai planted a Sindoor sapling on the premises of the under-construction building complex at Labhandi, where office-bearers and members also joined the plantation drive. Former Rajya Sabha MP Nand Kumar Sai emphasized collective commitment to education, while newly elected President Harvansh Singh Miri urged members to focus on developmental goals. Former Minister Nankiram, General Secretary Shiv Kumar, President Than Singh Diwan, Women’s Wing President Savita Sai, Treasurer Prem Singh, R.K. Sai, and Bhim Singh were present alongside a large turnout of delegates.