Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel pays tribute to former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna late Mr. Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary

Raipur, TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel paid homage to the late former Prime Minister of India, Bharat Ratna Rajiv Gandhi, on his death anniversary, May 21. Remembering Rajiv Gandhi's vision and contributions to the country's development, he acknowledged Rajiv Ji as the youngest Prime Minister of India and the architect of India in the 21st century. Baghel emphasized Rajiv Ji's foresight in driving India's IT and telecom revolution, recognizing the potential and significance of Information Technology (IT) and laying the foundation for e-governance and transparency in government work, which formed the basis of Digital India.

Furthermore, Baghel highlighted Rajiv Ji's efforts in establishing the framework for a 21st century India, empowering the youth by lowering the voting age to 18, granting constitutional status to Panchayati Raj, decentralizing power to villages through Panchayati Raj, and promoting the adoption of new technologies. Rajiv Ji was a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. His connection with Chhattisgarh was special, as he visited the tribal area of Kulhadighat in the Gariaband district in 1985, which remains deeply ingrained in the memories of the people. He also visited the Dugli village, now known as 'Rajiv Gram'.

Baghel further emphasized that Rajiv Ji had a roadmap for inclusive development, formulating various policies for rapid economic growth and equitable distribution of its benefits. Following in his footsteps, the Chhattisgarh government is dedicated to the development of all sections of society, from the underprivileged to entrepreneurs. In 2020, on the death anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, the state government launched the 'Rajiv Gandhi Kisan NYAY Yojana', providing agricultural input subsidies of Rs 9,000 per acre to over 24 lakh farmers in the state through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Similarly, the 'Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhumiheen Krishi Majdoor NYAY Yojana' was initiated to provide assistance to agricultural laborers in the farming sector, offering an annual amount of Rs 7,000 through DBT to landless workers.

The Chief Minister highlighted Rajiv Ji's unwavering stance against terrorism and his selflessness for the country. May 21, his death anniversary, is observed as Anti-Terrorism Day nationwide as a tribute to him. The true tribute to Rajiv Ji lies in eradicating terrorism, naxalism, and corruption while fostering the country and the state's development.