CM Vishnu Deo Sai interacts with beneficiaries, plants sapling under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign
Forest-based livelihoods strengthen education, employment, women’s empowerment and social security
Raipur (thestates.news) | As part of Sushasan Tihar, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai visited Badekanera village in Kondagaon district and interacted with beneficiaries of various Forest Department schemes, witnessing firsthand how forest-based livelihoods are transforming rural lives. Meeting Tendu leaf collectors, women’s self-help groups, students and farmers, he said the government’s objective extends beyond implementing schemes to creating sustainable livelihoods, educational opportunities, economic security and self-reliance in villages.
Chief Minister first visited the home of Tendu leaf collector Smt. Vedbati Yadav, who had collected 3,720 bundles of Tendu leaves this season and earned Rs 20,460. Appreciating her efforts, Shri Sai said that forest-based livelihoods are emerging as a strong source of economic empowerment for rural families.
He also interacted with Smt. Vimla Bhoyar, a member of the Maa Sheetla Self-Help Group associated with the Van Dhan Vikas Kendra in Mardapal. She said that by processing 85 kg of Tikhur within a month, she earned nearly Rs 85,000. Earlier, forest produce had limited use, but value addition and processing have created new income opportunities. Shri Sai described this as a model of women-led entrepreneurship and self-reliance based on local resources. Beneficiaries welcomed the Chief Minister with traditional beverages made from ‘jamun’, mango and ‘Tikhur’.
