Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai described the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana as a landmark initiative promoting social harmony, Antyodaya, and sensitive governance. Addressing a state-level mass marriage ceremony at Science College Ground, Raipur, Mr. Sai highlighted how the scheme has alleviated the anxiety faced by poor families regarding daughters’ marriages, providing them with a dignified and practical solution.
World Record Achieved: 6,412 Couples Married in a Single Day
A total of 6,412 couples from across Chhattisgarh, including Raipur district, solemnized their marriages according to their respective religious traditions. Out of these, 1,316 couples were blessed personally by Chief Minister Mr. Sai at the Science College Ground, while others joined virtually. Each newlywed couple received financial assistance of Rs 35,000 under the scheme.
This unprecedented event has been officially recorded in the Golden Book of World Records, highlighting the scale and inclusivity of the programme.
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Celebration of Interfaith Harmony and Social Unity
Mr. Sai emphasized that the programme went beyond a ceremonial function; it was a celebration of Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural diversity and social cohesion. Couples from Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist communities, as well as the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group Baiga, participated, reflecting deep-rooted unity and communal harmony in the state.
Launch of ‘Malnutrition-Free Chhattisgarh’ Campaign
On the occasion, Chief Minister Mr. Sai formally launched the Kuposhan Mukt Chhattisgarh Abhiyan (Malnutrition-Free Chhattisgarh Campaign). Initially rolled out as a pilot project in eight districts of Surguja and Bastar divisions, the campaign aims to promote community-driven nutritional development. Mr. Sai stated that following the pilot’s success, the initiative would be expanded statewide to ensure a healthier and well-nourished population.
Government Welfare Initiatives Highlighted
Mr. Sai further highlighted the state government’s rapid progress, fulfilling promises under Prime Minister Mr. Modi’s Guarantee within two years. Key initiatives mentioned included:
- Mahtari Vandan Yojana: Over 70 lakh women receive monthly aid of Rs 1,000.
- Financial support for tendupatta collectors through increased standard bag price.
- Revival of Charan Paduka Yojana and Mr. Ramlala Darshan Yojana.
- Financial assistance for landless labourers, among other welfare schemes.
Remarks by Ministers and Officials
Laxmi Rajwade, Minister for Women and Child Development, noted that the scheme was launched under former CM Dr Raman Singh and is being effectively carried forward by Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai.
Skill Development Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb termed the mass marriage ceremony as historic, emphasizing it reflects the Chief Minister’s sensitivity and inclusive governance vision.
The programme was attended by several dignitaries including MLAs Mr. Sunil Soni, Mr. Purandar Mishra, Mr. Anuj Sharma, Mr. Motilal Sahu, Mr. Sampat Agrawal; Chairman of Chhattisgarh State Seed Corporation Mr. Chandrahas Chandrakar; Chairperson of Child Protection Commission Dr Varnika Sharma; Secretary, Women and Child Development Smt Shammi Abidi; Director Dr Renuka Mr.vastava; and numerous other public representatives, officers, and staff.
Significance
The Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana not only provides financial support to families but also strengthens social harmony, interfaith unity, and community engagement. Coupled with the launch of the Malnutrition-Free Chhattisgarh Campaign, the state demonstrates a holistic approach toward welfare and development, ensuring dignity, equality, and prosperity for its citizens.
