In a grand celebration of Bastar’s pride and heritage, the sprawling campus of Government Model Higher Secondary School, Farsagaon, witnessed a historic congregation of nearly 10,000 people as several distinguished personalities of Bastar were felicitated with the “Bastar Gaurav Samman” under the banner of “Mera Lakshya, Mera Abhimaan.” The gathering included over 5,000 youth and a large number of women, creating an atmosphere of inspiration and cultural pride.
The Chief Guest of the occasion was Gajendra Yadav, Minister for School Education, Government of Chhattisgarh. The programme was chaired by Hon’ble MLA Neelkanth Tekam, widely admired for his selfless service. Formerly a popular Collector of Kondagaon, Tekam voluntarily resigned from the Indian Administrative Service to dedicate himself to public life. His sensitive and committed style of leadership has earned him the trust of the people, culminating in his election to the State Assembly.
The galaxy of distinguished guests included Bhojraj Nag, MP Kanker; Mahesh Kashyap, MP Bastar; Kedar Kashyap, Cabinet Minister, Government of Chhattisgarh; Lata Usendi, Senior MLA Kondagaon; Kiran Singh Deo, MLA Jagdalpur & State President BJP Chhattisgarh; Vikram Dev Usendi, MLA Antagarh; Asharam Netam, MLA Kanker; Vinayak Goyal, MLA Chitrakot; Chaitram Atami, MLA Dantewada; Savitri Mandavi, MLA Bhanupratappur; Lakheshwar Baghel, MLA Bastar; Vikram Mandavi, MLA Bijapur; Rita Shori, President, District Panchayat Kondagaon, along with numerous public representatives, officials and social leaders.
Among the luminaries honoured on this occasion, Dr. Rajaram Tripathi stood foremost, acclaimed for his pioneering role in organic farming, conservation of medicinal plants, and development of high-yielding varieties of white musli, stevia, and black pepper. His work has empowered thousands of farmers and uplifted tribal communities across the nation.
Other eminent awardees included Padma Ajay Mandavi (woodcraft), Kamlochan Kashyap (IPS, DIG Police), Mahadev Kawre (IAS, Commissioner Raipur), Namrata Jain (Assistant Collector), Teeju Ram Baghel (national awardee in wrought iron craft), Khileshwar Jain (noted social worker), Naina Singh Dhakad (renowned mountaineer), Santosh Jaiswal (entrepreneur), Subrat Saha (Ex-Servicemen Association, Bastar division), and the CG Master Team Kala Kshetra.
Addressing the massive gathering, MLA Neelkanth Tekam remarked:
“Dr. Rajaram Tripathi’s tireless efforts have brought glory not only to Bastar but to the entire nation. His revival of natural farming and endangered medicinal herbs is historic. His innovations in white musli, stevia, and particularly his high-yielding black pepper variety have transformed the lives of thousands of farmers. His service to the tribal community is invaluable. He is truly a son of the soil.”
While receiving the honour, Dr. Rajaram Tripathi stated with humility:
“I have received awards and recognition in many parts of the world, but to be honoured by one’s own land, one’s own people, is the greatest privilege of life. This Bastar Gaurav Samman is not mine alone, I dedicate it to the soil of Bastar, my tribal brothers and sisters, my family, and every member of the Maa Danteshwari Herbal Group. True honour is that which inspires us to serve society with deeper dedication and renewed energy.”
The event also witnessed stirring speeches by dignitaries. Kedar Kashyap praised the initiative and encouraged Bastar’s youth to pursue meaningful goals. MLA Asaram Netam electrified the gathering with his motivational words. Khileshwar Jain reflected on the foundations of India’s freedom and social upliftment. Naina Dhakad shared her remarkable journey of struggle and success, especially inspiring young women. The CG Master Team captivated the youth with their rich experiences and guidance.
A major highlight was the enthralling performance of the “Raktabeej Nritya Natika” and a series of cultural programmes centred on drug de-addiction awareness, presented by local students.
The event was ably compered by Viplav Day and Dr. Madhu Tiwari.
It ultimately became a grand festival of Bastar’s culture, pride, and identity, an unforgettable moment etched in the collective memory of all who attended.
