The tribal based in state have joined mainstream of development. Even the Prime Minister and President of India wants to see development at ground level, few of it is visual in districts of Bijapur and Dantewada”, said Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh.
He was addressing a function held here at Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in capital to mark the ‘International Day for World’s Indigenous People’s’ on Thursday.
Singh, was addressing the function as a chief guest, also came down heavily on Congress for growth of Naxalism in the tribal regions. Had the developmental works being undertaken during the 70 years of tenure, the situation might not have turned grim, he said.
“Budget was not an issue as the allocations were being made but it was never utilised. Yes, ground situation has changed in last 15 years. The transformation in the region is underway with allocation of 35 per cent of general budget by the Government,” he claimed.
“There was a time the tribal community had only one dream. If their children are educated, he or she will become a teacher. Gone are the days, now it is a matter to be proud that children of remotest corner are now becoming IAS and IPS,” he said.
Earlier, people were frightened to visit Bastar, but now they are arriving too see the developmental works being undertaken, he added.
“Before the BJP regime, darkness prevailed in half of the tribal villages. Now we have taken it as a challenge persisting since 60 years and are illuminating these villages,” he said.
In the function different tribal community folk dancers’ team presented their specific dance forms to exhibit their tribal culture. Various stalls were also installed at venue where social, economical development related schemes booklet and brochure were distributed.
Meritorious students in sectors of education, sports and others, community
members having gone remarkable service in social
sector, traditional treatment system were also felicitated in the programme.
Union Minister of state for steel Vishnudev Sai presided over the function while Union Tribal affairs minister Jual Oram was present as special guest. Chhattisgarh State Scheduled Tribe Commission chairman GR Rana, Vice Chairman Vikas Markam, Chhattisgarh State Scout and Guides State Chief Commissioner Gajendra Yadav among other departmental officers were present.