New Dawn of Development in Dhamtari: Empowerment of Kamar Community and Borai Becoming a New Center for Inter-State Trade
Raipur, Dhamtari district, rich in natural resources and cultural heritage, has emerged as a strong model for tribal development in Chhattisgarh. In line with the priorities of the state government and the Government of India, historical steps are being taken for the holistic development, socio-economic empowerment, and sustainable livelihood of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) 'Kamar' community in the district. From basic facilities to modern livelihood complexes, a new picture of change is clearly visible in the remote areas of Dhamtari district.
*Livelihood and Self-Employment*
*Modern Commercial Complexes to be Built in 7 Areas*
To make the Kamar community self-reliant and directly connect them with economic activities, the district administration is constructing modern commercial complexes at 7 major locations in the district: Belergaon, Kaspur, Borai, Kukrel, Singpur, Dugli, and Keregaon. In these complexes, beneficiaries from the Kamar community will be able to operate shops according to their interests and needs. This will not only create self-employment opportunities at the local level but also strengthen the resolve of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) on the ground.
*New Hub for Inter-State Trade and Transport*
Borai, located at the junction of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Kanker district, is planned to be developed as a major trading and transportation center. As per the proposal sent to the government, site selection has been completed. Along with the terminal, a commercial complex will also be developed, which will provide new business opportunities to local tribal youth and boost tourism and transportation.
*Second PM-JANMAN Housing Colony in the Country and First in Chhattisgarh*
Masanadabra, a dependent village of Gram Panchayat Sankara in Nagari Development Block of Dhamtari district, has set a new precedent across the country. Pucca houses have been built here for the Kamar tribe. The construction has taken full care of the traditional and cultural specifics of the Kamar community. This colony is being covered under the 'PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana' (PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme), which will illuminate these houses with solar energy. In Dhamtari district, tribal development is not just limited to statistics but is rapidly taking shape on the ground as well. Looking at the expansion of infrastructure and facilities, a big step has been taken towards educational enhancement, with the process of upgrading the currently operating Kamar school from class 10th to 12th proceeding rapidly, so that children here do not have to travel far for higher secondary education. Along with this, a 50-seater boys' hostel is being constructed in Bazar Kurridih of Nagari block for students coming from remote areas, which is targeted to be completed by next January. In terms of housing, out of a total of 1,481 pucca houses approved under the PM-JANMAN housing scheme in the district, the construction work of 1,046 has been completed, while the remaining 435 houses are also being finalized quickly. To connect remote areas with the mainstream by making commuting easier, the construction of 36 new roads at a cost of Rs 1,341.60 lakh is in progress. While fulfilling the basic needs of life, tap water has been provided to 100% of households under the Jal Jeevan Mission, and complete electrification of all settlements has also been done. The result of this coordinated effort is that today, 100% saturation of basic facilities and rapid activities has been achieved in 133 tribal settlements of the district.
*Multipurpose Centers and Model Settlements*
The multipurpose center built in Boirgaon of Nagari block has now become a focal point for education, health, livelihood, and government guidance. In Piparhi Bharri village, sustainable management of natural resources (minor forest produce) and mapping of livelihoods have been done under an integrated plan.
*Pride Enhanced by Presidential Award*
Dhamtari district has been honored with the Presidential Award for the excellent implementation of the PM-JANMAN scheme, which is a testament to the administrative commitment of the district. The Collector said that the district administration is working with full commitment for the holistic development of the particularly backward tribe Kamar community. Our aim is not just to provide basic facilities, but to connect them with sustainable livelihoods, quality education, and economic self-reliance. The Presidential Award received for the excellent implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Janman Yojana is a happy outcome of the collective efforts of our entire team and public representatives.