Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurates 'First Chhattisgarh Green Summit' in Raipur

 Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the first Chhattisgarh Green Summit at the Science College Ground in Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh. Various departments have set up stalls to promote the state's traditional forest wealth, medicinal products, and cultural heritage. Chief Minister visited these stalls, inquiring about the products and commending the efforts of artists and artisans. He was accompanied by Forest and Climate Change Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap.

Chief Minister calls for preservation of traditional medicines

During the visit, Chief Minister observed traditional medicines displayed by Shri Dashrath Netam, state president of the Chhattisgarh Vaidya Sangh. Shri Netam explained that these medicines are prepared from herbs carefully selected from the forests and are highly effective for health. He also elaborated on the manufacturing process and the benefits of these traditional remedies. Chief Minister stressed the importance of preserving and promoting the use of these traditional methods.

Chief Minister advocates for promoting herbal products to empower rural women and strengthen the economy

Chief Minister visited the stall of the Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce (Trading & Development) Co-operative Federation Ltd., where he observed a variety of forest-based products, including handmade green tea from Jashpur, herbal Chyavanprash, and pure herbal items crafted by the tribal community of the Bastar region. He expressed delight upon seeing products including honey, ragi-kodo cookies, amla candy, and jamun juice, all produced under the brand 'Chhattisgarh Herbals.' Chief Minister stated "Promoting these herbal products will not only provide employment to local women but also empower the rural economy."

Chief Minister praises captivating performances by folk artists

Chief Minister enjoyed a performance by Mohri player Shri Vishal Ram Yadav from Deori (Arang) and Chikara player Shri Manharan Das Banjare from Kolihapuri, Durg. He stated that traditional folk arts are an integral part of our cultural heritage and should be actively encouraged. Shri Sai praised both artists for their dedication to music.

Chief Minister appriciates beauty of Rajvar Art Mural Paintings

Mural artist Dr. Shashipriya Upadhyay informed the Chief Minister about the murals created by her team, which depict the primitive culture, folk life, and traditional costumes of Chhattisgarh through Rajvar art. She explained that the aim of Rajvar art is to preserve Chhattisgarh's folk culture and give it new dimensions. Appreciating this initiative, Chief Minister stated, "The future of our cultural heritage will be secure by preserving and promoting such folk arts."

Chief Minister honors the unique artistic talents of Divyang children

Chief Minister also visited a painting exhibition organized by hearing and speech-impaired students of Government Divyang Mahavidyalaya, Mana Camp. Student Dhandas Barmate presented a self-made folk art painting to the Chief Minister. Accepting the gift, the Chief Minister praised Dhandas' artistry, stating, "Your art will help give a new identity to our culture." He also wished Dhandas a bright future.

Chief Minister applauds Shri Rikhi Kshatriya’s efforts in promoting Chhattisgarhi music

Shri Rikhi Kshatriya, known for his contributions to the preservation of traditional musical instruments of Chhattisgarh, shared his journey in detail with the Chief Minister. He shared that for the past 45 years, he has been preserving and performing Chhattisgarhi instruments including Runju Baja, Ghumra Baja, and Chirai Baja. He has brought pride to the state by showcasing these instruments in Chhattisgarh's tableau on the Kartavya Path during Republic Day celebrations. Shri Kshatriya presented a Runju Baja to the Chief Minister and impressed him by demonstrating his remarkable skills, producing the sound of a lion with the Ghumra Baja and the sound of a bird with the Chirai Baja. Chief Minister appreciated his unique contributions, stating that such artists are the true protectors of our folk traditions.

Chhattisgarh’s unique cultural heritage receives well-deserved spotlight

Chief Minister stated “Events like the Chhattisgarh Green Summit provide a unique platform to promote the state's cultural heritage, traditional products, and handicrafts. These events are vital for preserving our traditional knowledge and culture, while also gaining recognition at national and international levels.”

Officials from various departments, art enthusiasts, and local residents attended the programme, expressing their appreciation for efforts to preserve Chhattisgarh's rich cultural heritage. Chief Minister encouraged all artists, artisans, and participants to continue preserving and promoting the cultural legacy of the state.