Raipur, Oct 12
Bijapur district in Bastar division of Chhattisgarh, once infamous for the Left Wing Extremism menace, is writing a new story of development and prosperity. Ujjwala Yojana, one of the flagship schemes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has brought transformational change in the lives of women here.
Not just this, slew of other public welfare programs like Good Governance Festival and "Niyad Nellanar" have brought profound changes to the lives of people.
Earlier, women previously toiled for hours collecting firewood and working in smoke-filled kitchens but now cooking with LPG gas has made life easier, safer, and healthier.
Thousands of women have received free gas connections and are now not just saving their time in cooking meals but also safeguarding their health from toxic smoke.
Earlier, eye irritation and respiratory illnesses in women were common but now the kitchens are filled with smiles and not smoke.
Many women say that cooking with LPG saves their time, thereby allowing them to take better care for their children and other household chores.
The benefits of government schemes and services are visible in almost every village here.
Rural women are participating in the Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the Nutrition Campaign, and the Swachh Bharat Mission. Administrative officials are regularly visiting villages to listen to people's problems and provide solutions.
These initiatives have given a new direction to transparency and public participation in governance.
These schemes have significantly increased women's participation and empowerment. Women are now not only managing their homes but also becoming self-reliant by engaging in employment-oriented activities.
They are selling their products in local markets, becoming financially strong through self-help groups, and playing a role in village development.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally some positive development news from Bastar region. For decades we only heard about Naxal violence, but now women empowerment stories are coming out. Hope this continues and reaches every corner of Chhattisgarh.
While the scheme is good, I hope the government ensures regular LPG cylinder supply and refill subsidies. Many rural areas still face challenges in getting timely refills. The initial connection is just the first step.
As a public health worker, I can confirm the massive health benefits. Women suffering from chronic bronchitis and eye problems have shown remarkable improvement after switching to LPG. This is truly life-changing! 💪
The combination of Ujjwala with SHGs and nutrition campaigns is brilliant. Women getting economic independence along with better health facilities - this is what holistic development looks like. More power to our sisters in Bastar! ✨
Great to see administrative officials actually visiting villages and solving problems. This kind of grassroots governance is what India needs. Hope other states learn from Chhattisgarh's model.
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