CM invokes ‘Swadeshi’ Spirit on Tribal Martyrs’ Day in Jabalpur

On the 168th Sacrifice Day observed in Jabalpur, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav paid homage to tribal martyrs Raja Shankar Shah and Kunwar Raghunath Shah, honoring their role in resisting British colonial rule. The event was marked by tributes and speeches at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Convention Centre. Yadav urged citizens to embrace the “Swadeshi” philosophy, emphasizing self-reliance, indigenous goods, and local production as vital to preserving cultural identity and strengthening economic resilience. He recalled how the two tribal leaders used poetry and moral courage as weapons in their fight for justice, defending the rights of forest-dwellers and indigenous communities. Their activism, he said, was rooted in deep respect for their land, forests, and traditional livelihoods — values that, according to the CM, are being revived across Madhya Pradesh through self-help groups, gram panchayats, and rural industries. CM Yadav also connected the legacy of the martyrs with current state initiatives. He highlighted how women’s self-help groups (SHGs) have become engines of economic transformation in villages, producing handicrafts, organic produce, and local goods under Swadeshi-inspired schemes. The aim, he said, is not just economic gain but also reclaiming dignity and cultural pride. He praised these groups for reducing dependency on external supply chains and creating sustainable livelihoods in remote areas. The Chief Minister called upon residents to actively support and buy local products, attend tribal fairs, and promote arts and culture indigenous to their region. He suggested that schools incorporate lessons about tribal history, Swadeshi heritage, and local crafts to instill a sense of belonging and respect for tribal communities among the younger generation. Wrapping up the ceremony, Yadav reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuing forest protection, land rights for tribal populations, and policies that support local industries over imported goods. He encouraged citizens to “Say with pride, we will adopt Swadeshi,” a slogan reflecting both resolve and reverence.