RAIPUR,CG,BHARAT: Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda addressed a large gathering at the Janadesh Parab program held at Science College Ground in Raipur, emphasizing the transformative progress of the nation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

Highlighting India’s growth, he stated that the country, currently the world’s fifth-largest economy, is on track to become the third-largest within five years. Nadda also mentioned that 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty during Modi's tenure.

At the event, Nadda inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various development projects worth ₹1,124 crore. He praised the Chhattisgarh government, led by Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, for its commitment to public welfare, citing initiatives like purchasing paddy from farmers at ₹3,100 per quintal and distributing ₹3,716 crore as a two-year paddy bonus.

Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai pledged that December 3 to December 13 would be celebrated annually as 'Janadesh Parab.' Next year marks Chhattisgarh's 25th anniversary, coinciding with the centenary of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Sai declared 2025 as ‘Atal Nirman Varsh’, focusing on infrastructure development inspired by Vajpayee's vision.

Sai highlighted the government’s achievements, including depositing ₹49,000 crore into farmers' accounts and disbursing ₹6,530 crore to 70 lakh women under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana. He underlined the state's commitment to good governance, citing the formation of the Department of Good Governance and Convergence and the introduction of digital governance systems like e-office to enhance transparency and accountability.

Addressing the development of tribal regions, Sai announced increased tendu leaf collection rates and a ₹5,000 honorarium for traditional tribal healers. He also highlighted tourism projects in Bastar, including the United Nations’ recognition of Dhudmaras village in Kanger Valley among the world’s top 20 villages. Efforts are underway to place Bastar and Surguja on the global tourism map, with air connectivity boosting accessibility.

Sai noted significant progress in combating Maoism, claiming over 200 Maoists have been neutralized in the past year. He spoke on the ‘Niyad Nella Naar scheme’ to promote development in areas once plagued by Maoist insurgency. Sai also unveiled plans to generate five lakh jobs through ₹2.5 lakh crore in investments under a new industrial policy, alongside ongoing recruitment for government positions.

During the event, Sai presented a replica of Ayodhya’s Ram temple crafted by Bastar artists to Nadda, and sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik showcased his artwork depicting state government schemes.