Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan presided over the Kotwar Conference held on Sunday at the Lal Parade Ground in the state capital. The conference, a significant gathering, witnessed CM Shivraj’s active participation as he arrived at the venue around noon and inaugurated the event by lighting a ceremonial lamp. Following the inauguration, CM Shivraj descended from the stage to warmly welcome the kotwaras, the grassroots-level village officials, with a shower of flowers.
During his address, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan conveyed his deep respect for the role of kotwaras, emphasizing that villages are akin to deities, and just as no endeavor begins without worshipping the village deity, no progress occurs in villages without the knowledge and dedication of kotwaras. Drawing an analogy, he referred to kotwaras as the “Google” of the village, highlighting their pivotal role in preserving and disseminating vital local information.
In a gracious gesture, especially significant during the election season, CM Shivraj extended gifts to the kotwaras, underlining his commitment to serve as the head of the state’s family rather than merely a government leader. He announced that all kotwaras would be entitled to the benefits of the health insurance scheme, ensuring their well-being.
Moreover, CM Shivraj declared that kotwaras would now wear khaki uniforms, symbolizing their role as key representatives in rural areas. Additionally, as a gesture of gratitude for their dedicated service, retiring kotwaras would receive a financial grant of one lakh rupees.
The Kotwar Conference served as an important platform to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of kotwaras in rural governance and community development, reinforcing the government’s commitment to their welfare and recognition of their essential role in the state’s progress.