Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today ceremoniously relaunched the Charan Paduka Yojana by personally presenting protective footwear to women tendu leaf collectors in Jamgaon, Durg district. The initiative will now directly benefit over 1.24 million tendu leaf collectors across Chhattisgarh, delivering yet another guarantee envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sai underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to empowering and securing the lives of tribal communities and forest-dependent families. “Charan Paduka Yojana is an expression of our profound gratitude to the diligent hands that collect forest produce in challenging conditions,” he said.
Chief Minister Shri Sai acknowledged the invaluable role of tendu leaf collector families in sustaining the state’s economy, driving forest-based livelihoods, and enriching local prosperity. “Their labour keeps Chhattisgarh’s centuries-old tradition of minor forest produce alive and supports millions of families,” he remarked. He further noted that the scheme had been a significant promise outlined in ‘Modi Ki Guarantee’, and is being fulfilled with complete sincerity. “This is not merely the distribution of footwear—it is a gesture that honours the dignity and contribution of tendu leaf collectors,” he added.
Chief Minister Sai also emphasized that through this initiative, the government pays tribute to the tireless efforts that traverse forest trails to fuel the state’s progress. “We stand with our forest workers in every challenge. Ensuring their dignity, well-being, and security is our foremost duty,” he affirmed.
