Chhattisgarh Launches ‘Chief Minister Baiga-Guniya-Hadjor Honor Scheme’ with Annual ₹5,000 Reward

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Raipur, Chhattisgarh: In a move to recognize and encourage traditional medicinal knowledge, the Chhattisgarh government has launched the “Chief Minister Baiga-Guniya-Hadjor Honor Scheme (Scheduled Tribes) 2025”. Under this initiative, eligible members of the Baiga, Guniya, and Hadjor communities will receive an annual honorarium of ₹5,000. The scheme aims to preserve tribal culture and reward individuals who have contributed to the traditional practice of forest-based herbal medicine.

Who is Eligible

The scheme targets individuals from Baiga, Guniya, and Hadjor communities who have been actively practicing forest-based herbal medicine in their local areas for the past three years or more. Preference will be given to those whose families have passed down herbal medical knowledge for at least two generations, and who have been serving their tribal villages for 30 years or more. Individuals associated with recognized organizations such as the Plant Medicine Board, AYUSH Department, Forest Department, or Minor Forest Produce Federations will also be considered.

Selection Process

Recommendations for eligible candidates will be made at the village level by the Gram Sabha and Panchayat. These will be approved by the Gram Secretary, Sarpanch, Anganwadi Workers, Mitanin, and school headmasters. The verified list will then be submitted to the District Assistant Commissioner for Tribal Development, where a committee including the District Chairperson, a tribal member, CEO, and Division Coordinator will finalize recipients. Special recognition will be given to those trained through recognized institutions.

Government’s Objective

The scheme seeks to protect tribal heritage, preserve traditional medicinal knowledge, and ensure the livelihoods of skilled practitioners. The annual honorarium of ₹5,000 will serve both as recognition and support for these tribal health practitioners.

CM Vishnudev Sai’s Statement

Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai said, “The tribal traditions of Chhattisgarh reflect our cultural richness and ancient knowledge. Baiga, Guniya, and Hadjor individuals have preserved the legacy of forest-based medicine for centuries. This scheme not only honors their invaluable service but also safeguards their traditional medicinal knowledge for future generations.”