Published on: April 14, 2025
By: [BTI]
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
The birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was commemorated with great reverence and enthusiasm in Rajnandgaon district, observed as Social Harmony Day. The program, organized at the District Panchayat Auditorium, saw virtual participation from Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma through video conferencing. The event was marked by a series of developmental announcements and a tribute to the architect of the Indian Constitution.
District Panchayat President Mrs. Kiran Vaishnav, Collector Mr. Sanjay Agrawal, CEO of District Panchayat Ms. Suruchi Singh, and various public representatives, members of the Buddhist community, and local citizens participated in the ceremony both physically and virtually.
The program began with floral tributes to the portrait of Dr. Ambedkar. Collector Mr. Sanjay Agrawal led the gathering in reciting the Preamble to the Indian Constitution, highlighting the core democratic values embedded by Dr. Ambedkar. He emphasized the need to imbibe these values in everyday governance and citizen conduct.
MoUs for Atal Digital Panchayat Centres Signed
In a significant move toward rural digital empowerment, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between 40 Gram Panchayats across development blocks and CSC (Common Service Center) service providers. These partnerships aim to establish Atal Digital Panchayat Centres, which will offer various digital government services to citizens at the grassroots level.
The official inauguration of these centres is scheduled for Panchayati Raj Day on April 24, 2025. The centres will bridge the gap between citizens and digital services, promoting ease of access, transparency, and digital literacy in rural areas.
Special Survey Under Awas Plus 2.0 from April 15
Another key announcement was the launch of a special fortnight-long survey under the ‘Awas Plus 2.0’ scheme from April 15 to April 30, 2025, as part of the state-wide “Mor Duwar, Sahay Sarkar” campaign. This survey aims to identify and include eligible families left out of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) beneficiary list. The administration also informed that dedicated Housing Ambassadors have been appointed to facilitate the process, with plans to deploy them in all Gram Panchayats.
Leaders Reflect on Dr. Ambedkar’s Legacy
Speaking on the occasion, District Panchayat President Mrs. Kiran Vaishnav recalled the immense contribution of Dr. Ambedkar to Indian society and governance. “He was among the world’s most intellectual minds. The Indian Constitution created by him laid the foundation for unity, integrity, and sovereignty. His vision continues to guide our democratic path,” she stated. She also emphasized Dr. Ambedkar’s role in empowering women through constitutional provisions and reservations.
Vice President of the District Panchayat Mrs. Kiran Sahu lauded Dr. Ambedkar’s relentless struggle for equality. “He dedicated his life to uplifting marginalized communities. The fundamental rights we enjoy today are due to his efforts,” she remarked, encouraging all citizens to live by his message: “Educate, Agitate, Organize.”
Collector Mr. Sanjay Agrawal paid homage to Dr. Ambedkar’s academic brilliance and described him as the first Indian to earn a PhD in Economics. He spoke of the exhaustive comparative constitutional studies conducted by Dr. Ambedkar before drafting India’s own Constitution. “Every line of the Constitution is rooted in deep thought and a vision for an equal and just society,” he added.
Community Participation and Closing Remarks
Members of the Buddhist Welfare Committee, including Mr. Kanti Kumar Phule, Dr. K.L. Tandekar, and Mr. Siddharth Chaure, expressed their gratitude and shared insights into Dr. Ambedkar’s thoughts on social harmony and community development. They urged citizens to live a life of purpose that contributes to society.
CEO of the District Panchayat Ms. Suruchi Singh concluded the program by extending a vote of thanks to all participants and stakeholders.
The event not only celebrated the life of a visionary leader but also marked the launch of impactful grassroots initiatives aligned with his ideals of equality, empowerment, and digital inclusion.
