Relief Provided By Chhattisgarh Government Aids Women In Dealing With Inflation: Mrs. Priyanka Gandhi

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel dedicated 186 development projects worth Rs 309.56 crore to the people of Durg district. He carried out bhumipoojan for 123 development works worth Rs 241.59 crore and inaugurated 63 development projects worth Rs 67.97 crore. Chief Minister Mr. Baghel announced the launching of the Chhattisgarh Mahtari Sanskritik Samvardhan Yojana (Chhattisgarh Mahtari Cultural Promotion Scheme), aimed at enhancing cultural heritage and tourism centres.

In her impassioned address, Mrs. Priyanka Gandhi began with hearty greetings to the people, invoking "Dai Didi Man La Johar, Chhattisgarh Mahtari Ki Jai, and Maa Bamleshwari Ki Jai." She highlighted the pressing issue of inflation and commended the Chhattisgarh Government's relentless efforts to bolster financial stability in the state. Notably, Chhattisgarh is providing the highest paddy prices in the country, curbing the trend of declining farmer numbers seen elsewhere. She praised the state government's farmer-centric policies, through which inflation's burden has considerably decreased for Chhattisgarh's residents. Mrs. Gandhi underscored the concern of stray animals causing trouble to farming communities across India, and women often engaged with the responsibilities of crop protection. She praised the Chhattisgarh Government for proactively addressing this concern by establishing Gauthans and stated that she regularly highlights the success of this model during her visits to other states. 

Mrs. Gandhi, addressing the conference, praised the impressive stalls and the hard work of countless women from Chhattisgarh's SHGs. She lauded their dedication and considered their work a shining example of women's entrepreneurship in India. During her discussions with self-reliant women, she observed their deep confidence and genuine smiles, attributing their success to the state government support that enabled them to stand on their own feet. Mrs. Gandhi also met with young doctors providing vital healthcare services in remote villages and women crafting various products as part of collaborative efforts. She marvelled at the substantial progress these individuals had made through group participation. Conclusively, Mrs. Gandhi mentioned her observation about a vivid picture of Chhattisgarh Mahtari, symbolizing cultural heritage on one hand and technology on the other, encapsulating the essence of the state's resilient and empowered women. 

Mrs. Gandhi commended the Chhattisgarh Government's commitment to empowering women and efforts to formulate various schemes focusing on women as the backbone of society. Chief Minister himself had underlined the fact that women are skillfully living up to the responsibility of both families and sleep last at night. Women build the future of the next generation.

Mrs. Gandhi commended the efforts of Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel's government in empowering women through a multitude of schemes. Over 10 lakh women have joined various groups, with some achieving significant financial success. The state government also raised the honorarium for Anganwadi workers and assistants and increased the stipends for the Mitanin. The launch of the Dai Didi Clinic Yojana offers free healthcare services to women. The Mahtari Jatan Yojana provides nutritious food for pregnant mothers, while free education is provided to women in government schools. The state government waived loans worth crores of rupees for women's self-help groups and extended assistance through the Mukhyamantri Noni Sahayata Yojana. Additionally, thousands of women gained employment under the Mission Clean City project.

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel addressed the program and stated that women are always honoured in Chhattisgarh's society. The state has consistently maintained a commendable gender ratio, reflecting equality and cooperation between men and women in various endeavours. The government has implemented comprehensive plans across all sectors, focusing on bolstering farmers' economic well-being and increasing the honorarium for Mitanin and Anganwadi worker-assistants. Additionally, the introduction of the Old Pension Scheme for employees demonstrates the government's dedication to the welfare of its citizens.

The Chhattisgarh Government, led by Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel, has launched several schemes to bring economic prosperity to Chhattisgarh. Notably, the ceiling for providing loans to self-help groups was raised, and their existing loans were waived. The state government has also taken steps to promote economic growth, such as the establishment of BPOs and a garment factory. Cultural traditions are being preserved and celebrated, with holidays introduced for Teej and other local celebrations. The ‘Teej Tihar’ was recently observed at the Chief Minister's residence. The state government has also made efforts to preserve the native language and revive traditional food culture, notably "Bore Basi," which has gained popularity even among officials, who now share their experiences on social media platforms. Efforts to beautify and promote Chhattisgarh's culture are evident, from the installation of Chhattisgarh Mahtari's statue at the collectorate and the adoption of the state anthem. Projects like creating a model Jaitkhambh and developing the Ram Van Gaman Tourism circuit are underway, demonstrating the government's commitment to preserving and enhancing the state's rich cultural heritage.

During his address, Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel expressed amazement at Priyanka Gandhi's skill in handling a 'Bhora', admitting uncertainty about her abilities. Mrs. Gandhi, in response, reminisced about her childhood games, including Pithul, Kanche, Gilli Danda, and Stapu, playfully expressed that women have always excelled, often surpassing boys in such activities. 

Mrs. Gandhi expressed her deep pride in being present in Bhilai, a place of historical significance. She mentioned Bhilai's transformation since 1955 when Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru laid the foundation for a steel plant. Bhilai now stands as a shining example for the entire nation, attracting people from all corners of the country. She emphasized the importance of unity among its residents and credited Bhilai as the bedrock of modern India's foundation. She also paid tribute to the great leaders, including Nehru, who fought for independence and laid the principles that continue to shape the nation's politics even today, focusing on strengthening the present while securing the future.

Mrs. Gandhi reminisced about a childhood memory during her address, recalling a tour of Amethi with her father. She vividly remembered her father driving the jeep himself and engaging with the locals in a village. A woman loudly criticized her father for the poor condition of the road, which left a strong impression on young Priyanka. Her father, however, listened attentively and reassured the villagers that everything would improve. This incident epitomized the politics of that era, where even the Prime Minister recognized his responsibility towards the public. When Priyanka asked her father if he felt hurt, he replied that it was his duty to pay attention to the people's concerns, and it was also his duty to work towards resolving their issues. 

Deputy Chief Minister Mr. T.S. Singh Deo, School Education Minister Mr. Ravindra Choubey, Home Minister Mr. Tamradhwaj Sahu, Women and Child Development Minister Mrs. Anila Bhediya, Excise Minister Mr. Kawasi Lakhma, and Bastar Member of Parliament Mr. Deepak Baij also addressed the conference. Former Union Minister Ms. Kumari Selja, Legislative Assembly Speaker Dr. Charandas Mahant, Urban Administration Minister Dr. Shiv Dahariya, Higher Education Minister Mr. Umesh Patel, Food Minister Mr. Amarjeet Bhagat, PHE Minister Mr. Guru Rudra Kumar, Revenue Minister Mr. Jay Singh Agrawal, MLA Mr. Arun Vora, MLA Mr. Devendra Yadav, and other public representatives were present.