Shivraj Singh Chouhan: The Longest-Serving CM of Madhya Pradesh and His Impact on the State
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the longest-serving Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, India, is enjoying his fourth term in office. His dedication to improving the lives of 75 million citizens has earned him a strong reputation as a mass leader. More than half of the Madhya Pradesh population recognises him, and he has been re-elected multiple times due to his social programmes such as the Ladli Lakshmi Yojana and Kanyadan Vivah Yojana.
Achievements and Responsibilities
Agriculture
Madhya Pradesh, predominantly an agricultural state with 70% of its population engaged in agriculture, has seen its agricultural growth rate increase significantly under Chouhan's leadership. Between 2006 and 2015, the rate was 9.7%, rising to 14.2% in the last five years alone. This growth has led to an increase in the rate of rice, wheat, soybean, and gram seed replacement, as well as a higher usage of fertiliser per hectare. Consequently, Madhya Pradesh now produces more certified seeds than any other state in the country, with production reaching 4.4 million quintals for these crops.
Economy
Under Chouhan's skilled leadership, Madhya Pradesh has experienced a complete turnaround. The state's industries have thrived, transforming it from one of the least developed to one boasting an average GDP of over 8%. The state is now one of the top 5 states in India for business ease, according to World Bank rankings.
Employment
To boost job opportunities, Chouhan set a target of filling 1 lakh posts by 2022. In the last year alone, over 31 lakh 19 thousand self-employment opportunities have been created through various schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, the Chief Minister's Rural Street Vendor Scheme, the National Rural Livelihood Mission, PM Swanidhi Yojana, and others.
Empowering Women
Shivraj Singh Chouhan is a strong advocate for women's rights. When he was in office, he launched the When Poor programme, which has seen free housing for the poor, interest-free loans to street vendors, and bank links for women seeking self-employment. The programme also includes initiatives to encourage natural farming, starting drone systems, expanding irrigation, public participation in Anganwadis, and investments in industrial areas.
Tribal Peoples
The government's decision to implement the PESA Act in the interests of indigenous people is commendable. Thanks to Chouhan's efforts, the tribal community will see significant progress in land, water, and forest rights. The PESA Act is enabling the indigenous community to reclaim property on confiscated land and gain access to village sand, gravel, and stones.
Tourism
Tourism in Madhya Pradesh saw a massive boost with the implementation of the State Tourism Policy in 2016. This policy has allowed foreign companies to establish offices across the entire state, not just in designated special tourism zones. The MP State Tourism Development Corporation can now enter into management agreements with private firms to manage its units.
Conclusion
Shivraj Singh Chouhan is a prime example of a leader whose work truly benefits the masses. He is known to the Madhya Pradesh citizens as 'the states chief' and has laid the foundation for a self-reliant state, Atmanirbhar Madhya Pradesh.