Raipur, Sep 06: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai celebrated Teeja Tihar with thousands of women in traditional attire at Bahtarai Stadium in Bilaspur on Sunday, extending advance greetings for the festival and praying to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of all women in Chhattisgarh.

Addressing a grand Teeja Milan ceremony organized by Kamal Sakhi Parivar, Chief Minister Sai stated that Teeja is a sacred festival of rich folk culture that embodies women’s love, faith, and prayers for family prosperity. He noted that the tradition of married daughters returning to their maternal homes for Teeja has been preserved for generations, strengthening family ties and social harmony.

The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade, MLAs Amar Agrawal, Dharamlal Kaushik, Sushant Shukla, and Bhawna Bohra, alongside several public representatives and a large gathering of women.

Chief Minister Sai emphasized that women have held the highest place of respect in Sanatan culture. He highlighted key initiatives launched under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership to ensure dignity, safety, and empowerment, including household toilet construction, issuance of ration cards in women’s names, and regular financial assistance under the Mahatari Vandan Yojana in Chhattisgarh. He shared that over 68 lakh women in the state have received 31 installments under the scheme, enhancing their self-reliance and household standing.

Chief Minister Sai said women in Chhattisgarh are active participants in the state’s growth journey rather than mere beneficiaries of welfare schemes. Over 13.85 lakh women have now achieved Lakhpati Didi status by joining self-help groups and engaging in diverse livelihood activities to strengthen their family income.

He added that women across the state are adopting modern technology and micro-enterprises. Drone Didis earn ₹6,000 to ₹7,000 daily through agricultural applications, while others operate e-rickshaws or centering plate businesses. From Bastar to Bilaspur, women are establishing successful ventures through determination and skill. The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to offering incentives and opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

Chief Minister Sai highlighted that Chhattisgarh is rich in mineral, forest, and natural resources, offering immense development potential. He stated that the government aims to extend development benefits to every section of society at the grassroots level.

He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to achieving a Developed Chhattisgarh alongside a Developed India by 2047, stressing that women will play a central role in this mission. He noted that when women are educated, safe, healthy, and financially empowered, families and the state progress rapidly.

Marking the occasion, Chief Minister Sai announced that Chorhadevari village in Bilha development block will be renamed ‘Ramdevi’. He also announced financial assistance of ₹30 lakh for the annual Beltara Mahotsav held on Maghi Purnima, drawing enthusiastic applause from the attendees.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao described Teeja as a vital festival reflecting devotion, love, and family dedication. He commended Kamal Sakhi Parivar for organizing the event, noting that such gatherings preserve tradition and build community closeness.

Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade stated that Teeja symbolizes the state’s cultural heritage and faith, adding that the state government remains dedicated to women’s holistic development and empowerment. Beltara MLA Sushant Shukla highlighted how the festival passes traditional values down to younger generations.

The Bahtarai Stadium presented a festive atmosphere with traditional swings, henna stalls, music, and recreational activities for women and children. Special arrangements were made for food and gifts.