Four Decades of Service to Bastar and Tribal Society a Remarkable Example of Humanity: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur, May 2026 : Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai today met Padma Shri awardee social service couple Dr. Sunita Godbole and Dr. Ramchandra Godbole at his residence office and lauded their more than four decades of dedicated service among the people of Bastar and tribal communities.

During the meeting, the Godbole couple shared their deep emotional bond with Bastar, stating that they have a strong affection for the region and its people. They said they communicate in local languages such as Gondi and Halbi and expressed that they no longer wish to leave Bastar. The Chief Minister described this sentiment as a reflection of deep cultural attachment and human compassion towards the region and its tribal society.

Chief Minister Sai said that the Padma Shri awarded to the couple is not just a personal honour but a matter of pride for the entire state, especially Bastar and its tribal population. He said their work represents a rare example of service, dedication and humanity.

He appreciated their long-standing efforts in providing free medical treatment to tribal communities and raising awareness about malnutrition, tuberculosis, malaria, jaundice and other serious diseases. He also acknowledged their significant contribution in spreading awareness about education and de-addiction.

The Chief Minister noted that the couple has worked tirelessly in extremely difficult and remote regions such as Bastar and Abujhmad, demonstrating that true service means reaching out with empathy, trust and care to the most needy sections of society.

He further said that even during the most challenging period of Naxal violence, the Godbole couple continued their service without fear, prioritising humanity above all else. Their unwavering commitment during times of insecurity reflects their deep emotional connection with Bastar and its people.

Chief Minister Sai said that it was particularly heartening that the couple has immersed themselves in the local culture and traditions of Bastar. He noted that their ability to communicate in local languages and their integration into the community is a testimony to their strong bond of trust and belonging with the people.

He also highlighted his association with the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram and said that the institution’s values are rooted in service, dedication and compassion for society. He said such efforts help bring positive transformation in society by reaching the last person in the development chain.

During the interaction, the Chief Minister also shared details of the state government’s ongoing initiatives for the development of Bastar. He said the government is working with a focus on development and trust, ensuring that governance, healthcare, education and basic services reach remote tribal regions.

He said that security camps are being transformed into “Seva Dera” centres where not only security but also health, education, banking and other public services are being made available. He also referred to schemes like “Niyad Nellanar”, under which government services are being extended to the remotest areas.

The Chief Minister said that Bastar is now witnessing a new environment of development, security and trust, which is the result of consistent efforts by the government. He added that security measures are being linked with public welfare to ensure holistic development.

The Godbole couple also shared their spiritual inspiration from Saint Gahira Guru and spoke about their visits to Kailash Gufa, Sanskrit institutions and ashrams in the Sarguja region. The Chief Minister appreciated their deep cultural engagement with Chhattisgarh’s spiritual and tribal heritage.

Chief Minister Sai expressed confidence that the dedication and service of the Godbole couple will continue to inspire a new spirit of public service and social awareness across the state.