Tribals thank govt for PESA law implementation
Ranchi: Hundreds of tribal community members gathered today at Morhabadi Maidan in Ranchi under the leadership of the Central Sarna Committee. They marched on foot via Dr. Ramdayal Munda Football Ground and Sidhu–Kanhu Park to reach the Chief Minister’s residence. Students from the Karamtoli tribal hostel joined the procession, dancing and singing to the beats of dhol, nagada, and mandar drums. At the residence, the group met Chief Minister Hemant Soren and expressed their gratitude for the implementation of the PESA law.
Addressing the gathering, the CM highlighted the long struggle of Jharkhand’s ancestors to protect the state’s culture, forests, and land. He recalled the sacrifices of many who were jailed or executed during the fight for a separate state, which was realized after 30–40 years of struggle. Even after statehood, external forces continued to dominate, he said. Hemant Soren added that the responsibility to develop the state was now entrusted to the government, and despite conspiracies, truth ultimately prevailed. He noted that in the past year, 9–10 thousand youths were given jobs and the PESA law was enacted in the state.
The CM emphasized that the law will only be meaningful if the community is aware and united. He warned that until tribal society comes together, exploitative individuals will continue to cheat them, and the law will remain confined to paper. Strong villages, he said, are key to a strong Jharkhand.
Ajay Tirkey, president of the Central Sarna Committee, thanked the Chief Minister, stating that the law will now help protect forests, water, and land, curb migration from tribal areas, and give real authority to Gram Sabhas. Tirkey added that local disputes, big or small, can now be resolved at the village level. He called the PESA law the result of a long tribal struggle, strengthening constitutional rights and empowering Gram Sabhas.
Jharkhand ensures transparent paddy procurement
Ranchi, Dec 26: The Jharkhand government has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and farmers’ welfare, stating that paddy procurement is being carried out strictly in accordance with prescribed rules across more than 700 procurement centres in the state.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren said that farmers can sell their paddy at the nearest procurement centre in their respective blocks, where purchases are being made through a transparent and streamlined process.
He informed that farmers are being paid Rs 2,450 per quintal, with the amount credited directly into their bank accounts to ensure accountability and eliminate irregularities.
The Chief Minister urged farmers not to fall prey to middlemen or any individuals promising compensation or faster payments in exchange for money.
He cautioned that no intermediary is authorised to collect money on behalf of the government.
Calling for vigilance, Soren appealed to farmers to immediately report any illegal demand for money or attempts to mislead them to the concerned circle office or district administration.
“Prosperous farmers are the strength of Jharkhand. The state government remains fully committed to safeguarding the rights and interests of every farmer,” the Chief Minister said.
