The State Government has decided to introduce an annual award of Rs 2 lakh in memory of Jyotiba Phule and Savitri Bai Phule. The award would be given to those making important contribution in the field of education and social service.
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan made an announcement on the occasion of Jyotiba Phule’s birth anniversary on Thursday. Speaking at a function held in Gwalior, CM said “By inspiring his wife Savitri Bai to take up studies, Phule set an example before the society and created a new social consciousness. After getting educated, Savitri Bai further spread the message of women’s education in the society,”.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State President Narendra Singh Tomar said that Phule’s birthday would be celebrated as sankalp diwas.
“Following the ideas of Jyotiba Phule, the State Government under leadership of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has opened its treasures for socially and economically backward classes,” Tomar said. Senior party leaders including BJP State Vice-President Vedprakash Sharma, parliamentarian Yashodhara Raje Scindia, Health Minister Narottam Mishra, Mahendra Hardia and others were present at the programme. Jyotiba Phule’s birth anniversary was also observed in the State capital. Speaking at the programme, BJP Office Secretary Aloke Sanjar said that Phule dedicated his life common people and women empowerment.