- LD Manikpuri, Assistant Public Relations Officer
Raipur 14 June 2024
In a democracy, the public grants its leadership a mandate of five years to fulfill its promises. In such circumstances, expecting the head of state to fulfill these promises within just six months is often deemed unrealistic. However, when driven by passion, a desire for action, and a commitment to coordinated efforts, history can be made even within a short timeframe. Assessing the accomplishments of any government within a mere six months is insufficient; nevertheless, the rapid progress made by the Shri Vishnu Deo Sai government serves as a notable example.
Chief Minister Shri Sai wasted no time in delivering on most of the promises made during the assembly elections. Sworn in on December 13, 2023, and by April 15, 2024, a mere 4 months and 2 days later, significant progress was made. Besides, from March 16 to June 6 of this year, the Model Code of Conduct was enforced across the state due to the Lok Sabha elections, spanning 2 months and 21 days. Consequently, Chief Minister Shri Sai has had only four months to make decisions, implement schemes, and shape future strategies.
Nevertheless, despite these constraints, Chief Minister Shri Sai has managed to make a distinct impact on the state with his thoughtful decisions. When addressing the needs of the masses, it becomes imperative to devise strong, long-term strategies concerning their health, education, self-reliance, and empowerment. A new ray of hope has dawned in the lives of 70 lakh married women in the state through the ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana’. This initiative aims to provide a financial assistance of Rs 1000 to married women every month, with four installments already disbursed. The primary objective behind this governmental provision is to empower women financially and enhance their economic well-being.
Remaining true to his promises and assertions, Chief Minister Shri Sai has fulfilled the commitment of procuring paddy from lakhs of farmers in the state at the rate of Rs 3100 per quintal and 21 quintals per acre. Subsequently, a support price of Rs 32,000 crores was deposited into the farmers’ accounts, with the difference amount of Rs 13,320 crores transferred to 24.75 lakh farmers under the ‘Krishak Unnati Yojana’. Notably, a record 145 lakh metric tonnes of paddy was procured during the Kharif season. Furthermore, bold decisions like disbursing Rs 3,716 crores as pending paddy bonuses for two years to farmers have been taken.
In just six months, Chief Minister Shri Sai has succeeded in establishing his government’s identity as one that is both sensitive and farmer-centric. Being the state’s first tribal Chief Minister, who better to understand the trials, aspirations, and needs of the tribal population than him! Upon assuming office, the remuneration for tendupatta collectors was promptly raised to Rs 5,500 per standard bag, benefiting over 12.50 lakh collectors. Besides, acknowledging the desire of elderly members in families to go on pilgrimages, often hindered by financial constraints, security concerns, and a lack of guidance, the state government initiated the Shri Ramlala Darshan Yojana to fulfill their wishes.
Decisions such as providing free food grains for five years to over 68 lakh underprivileged families in the state highlight the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the deprived. Owning a house, a pucca one, may seem like a distant dream for economically disadvantaged families. However, the state has taken concrete steps towards realizing this dream by sanctioning 18 lakh houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Upon assuming office, Chief Minister Shri Sai promptly identified the issues faced by the youth. Recognizing their frustration and indignation concerning the CGPSC examination scam, he recommended a CBI investigation. In addition, by extending a five-year age limit relaxation for government recruitment, he has instilled a sense of hope and contentment among the youth.
The Bastar region, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, abundant resources, and the rich art and culture of its indigenous tribes, has captured the attention of both the nation and the world. Despite this, some Maoist elements have sought to tarnish the region’s peaceful atmosphere. It is due to Chief Minister Shri Sai’s resolute decision-making and enhanced strategic measures that, within just six months, security forces have killed 129 Maoists, arrested 488, and witnessed 431 surrenders. These actions signal a fresh wave of hope in Bastar.
