RAIPUR,CG,BHARAT: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai on Thursday elaborated on the Dharti Aaba Tribal Village Utkarsh Abhiyan, launched by the Central Government, which has allocated Rs 80,000 crore for the development of 6,691 tribal villages in Chhattisgarh, focusing on improving basic facilities and the welfare of the tribal population.

Sai was addressing the inaugural event of the two-day Tribal Pride Day and Inter-State Tribal Folk Dance Festival at Devguri on the Science College grounds in Raipur, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Lord Aba Bhagwan Birsa Munda. The event was marked by prayers and the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. This state-level program will feature seminars on various topics, an exhibition of tribal art, and vibrant cultural performances by 28 tribal dance troupes from 21 states across India.

He extended greetings to the public on Tribal Pride Day. In his tribute to Lord Birsa Munda, along with Martyr Veer Narayan Singh, Shaheed Gend Singh, and Gundadhur, he expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to honor Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary as Tribal Pride Day, a move that he said has uplifted the pride of the tribal community. On behalf of the 3 crore people of Chhattisgarh, he conveyed his gratitude to the Prime Minister.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the celebrations began in Jashpur on Wednesday, emphasizing that both Prime Minister Modi and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee have shown unparalleled commitment to the welfare of tribal communities. He noted that Vajpayee established a dedicated ministry for the welfare of the country’s 10 crore tribal population.

Sai also mentioned ongoing initiatives under the PM Janman Yojana to enhance basic infrastructure in villages of particularly vulnerable tribal communities. He shared that Prime Minister Modi would officially inaugurate Tribal Pride Day tomorrow, 15 November, from Jamui, Bihar.

The event began with a lively march-past by tribal dance groups from 21 states, with the audience applauding with rhythmic claps. Tribal Welfare Minister Ramvichar Netam delivered the welcome address, noting that this celebration honors art, culture, traditions, and the sacrifices of heroes who gave their lives for the nation. He also acknowledged the efforts of Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Sai in advancing the welfare of all sections of society.