Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai Flags Off ‘Gajarath Yatra’ — A Unique Initiative to Curb Human-Elephant Conflict

Sindoor plants planted in Ranjita Stadium premises; Message of Environmental Conservation Delivered

Raipur, June 21, 2025 — On the occasion of International Yoga Day, Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the ‘Gajarath Yatra’ by flagging it off at a program organized at Ranjita Stadium in Jashpur. This innovative initiative aims to reduce human-elephant conflict in Chhattisgarh and promote wildlife conservation through public awareness.

Through this yatra (journey), outreach will be conducted in schools, village panchayats, and local markets to spread messages about elephant behavior, safety measures, and the importance of coexistence.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister emphasized that community participation and awareness are crucial to mitigating rising conflicts between humans and elephants. He noted that the ‘Gajarath Yatra’ would serve as a meaningful platform to educate people and help reduce human-wildlife conflict. On this occasion, he also honored forest department personnel who have made remarkable contributions in this field.

During the program, the Chief Minister planted a sindoor tree (Vermilion tree) in the stadium premises to promote environmental conservation. Under the campaign “One Tree in the Name of Mother”, he appealed to citizens to take part in large-scale tree plantation. He emphasized that trees not only provide life-giving oxygen but are also essential for water conservation, biodiversity, and climate balance.

Mr. Sai also unveiled a short film and a booklet prepared by the Forest Department, which provides information on elephant-related precautions, understanding their behavior, and safety tips. These materials will be distributed among school children, villagers, and local communities.

The Chief Minister stated that environmental conservation is not just the government’s responsibility but that of every citizen. He highlighted various government schemes and awareness campaigns that support sustainable development and the vision of a greener Chhattisgarh.

Notably, the ‘Gajarath Yatra’ is part of a broader state government strategy dedicated to ensuring a safe habitat for wildlife through sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and active community participation. At the conclusion of the program, the Chief Minister extended his best wishes to all participants and the forest department team for their efforts.

Dignitaries Present:

The event was attended by Social Welfare Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, Yoga Commission Chairman Mr. Roop Narayan Sinha, former MP Mr. Ranvijay Singh Judev, Padma Shri awardee Mr. Jageshwar Yadav, MLA Smt. Raymuni Bhagat, District Panchayat President Mr. Salik Sai, Mati Kala Board Chairman Mr. Shambhunath Chakravarti, Construction Workers Welfare Board Chairman Mr. Rampratap Singh, Municipal Council President Mr. Arvind Bhagat, Vice President Mr. Yash Pratap Singh Judev, Divisional Commissioner Mr. Narendra Dugga, IG Mr. Deepak Jha, Collector Mr. Rohit Vyas, SSP Mr. Shashi Mohan Singh, along with several public representatives, citizens, school students, and representatives from yoga organizations.

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