Tribal Development Gaining Unprecedented Momentum in Chhattisgarh: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

Chief Minister Attends Oath-Taking Ceremony of Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh’s Chhattisgarh State Board

Raipur, July 2026: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday said that tribal development in the state has gained unprecedented momentum, with the government working with complete commitment for the holistic welfare of tribal communities.

Addressing the oath-taking ceremony of the Chhattisgarh State Board of the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh at the Jan Darshan Hall of the Chief Minister’s residence in Raipur, the Chief Minister congratulated the newly appointed office-bearers and members. He expressed confidence that the newly constituted state board would play a significant role in the upliftment of tribal communities, safeguarding their rights and promoting inclusive social development.

The programme was attended by Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh President Prakash Kumar Uikey, Kaushalya Sai, Rajesh Malviya, Kunwar Jitendra Narsingh Rana, members of the organisation and office-bearers from various states.

Chief Minister Sai said Chhattisgarh is a predominantly tribal state, home to several tribal communities, including Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), who have preserved their rich traditions, culture and way of life. He noted that the formation of the Chhattisgarh State Board of the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh was highly significant in such a state.

He highlighted the organisation’s distinguished legacy, stating that it has been dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of tribal communities across the country for decades.

Recalling the Sangh’s historical importance, the Chief Minister said India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, served as its first President, while former Prime Minister Morarji Desai also led the prestigious organisation. He welcomed representatives from different states to Chhattisgarh and extended his best wishes to the newly appointed members of the state board.

The Chief Minister said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government has accorded top priority to the comprehensive development of tribal regions. He noted that the Bastar region has entered a new era of development, with rapid expansion of roads, education, healthcare, drinking water facilities, electricity, communication networks and other essential infrastructure.

Sai said Bastar has also emerged as a major tourism destination, attracting visitors from across India and abroad who are eager to experience its rich tribal heritage, natural beauty and unique traditions. Tourists staying in local homestays are also contributing to strengthening the rural economy.

He observed that many parts of Bastar remained disconnected from the mainstream of development for nearly four decades, and nearly 400 villages had never even been officially surveyed. The present government has now completed surveys in these villages and accelerated development works.

Under the Niyad Nellanar Yojana, the government has extended roads, drinking water and other basic amenities to more than 500 villages. Ration cards are being issued to residents, new fair-price shops have been opened and the benefits of various government welfare schemes are being delivered more effectively to people living in these remote areas.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the Mukhyamantri Swasth Bastar Yojana, under which healthcare teams are conducting door-to-door medical examinations in tribal areas to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment for people living in remote regions.

He further spoke about the Bastar Munne Programme, which translates to “Leading Bastar.” The initiative aims to ensure that government welfare schemes reach even the most remote forest villages efficiently and effectively.

Emphasising the state’s long-term vision, Sai said the government is committed to preserving the rich cultural heritage, traditions and values of tribal communities while simultaneously connecting them with quality education, healthcare, employment opportunities, sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment.

Expressing confidence in the newly formed state board, the Chief Minister said it would serve as a strong platform for bringing different sections of society together and provide renewed energy and direction to the state’s efforts towards comprehensive tribal development.