Governor Hari Babu Bagde Marks One Year in Office with Tribal Outreach in Rajasthan

Governor Celebrates First Anniversary Among Tribal Communities in Udaipur’s Remote Bilwan-Kotra Region

Udaipur, 30 July: Governor of Rajasthan, Shri Hari Babu Bagde, observed the completion of his first year in office with a heartfelt interaction among tribal communities in the remote region of Bilwan, Gram Panchayat Kotra, in Udaipur. Marking the occasion with simplicity, he spent the evening engaging with local residents, reflecting his commitment to tribal and indigenous welfare.

Notably, Shri Bagde assumed the office of Governor on 31 July 2024.

Two-Day Udaipur Visit Begins with Tribal Connect

As part of his two-day visit to Udaipur district, the Governor arrived at Maharana Pratap Airport, Dabok on Wednesday afternoon via helicopter. He was welcomed by local officials and proceeded by road to Bilwan village in Kotra block. Tribal Area Development Minister Shri Babulal Kharadi, former Kherwada MLA Nanalal Ahari, Additional Chief Secretary TAD Kunjilal Meena, Divisional Commissioner Ms. Pragya Kevalramani, District Collector Namit Mehta, and Superintendent of Police Yogesh Goyal received the Governor.

Local representatives and villagers extended a traditional welcome under the leadership of Kotra Pradhan Sugna Devi. Bilwan Sarpanch Shankarlal Gamar and Suresh Kher presented traditional bow and arrow to the Governor. The villagers honored him with traditional Gair dance. Governor Bagde interacted warmly with the community, listened to them, observed their crafts, and urged officials to work towards their welfare. Special Officer Dr Prithviraj was also present during the visit.

“Education is the Path to Continuous Progress” – Governor Bagde

Addressing villagers during an interactive session in Bilwan, the Governor emphasized the importance of education for upliftment. Recalling the role of the tribal community in supporting Maharana Pratap during the Mughal wars, he paid homage to historic tribal figures such as Raja Bansia Bhil, Rana Punja, Raja Dungariya Bhil, Raja Kushla Bhil, Raja Kamal Bhil, and Raja Kotiya Bhil. “Just as we remember Maharana Pratap, we must also honor these great personalities,” he said.

He urged parents to focus on their children’s education, stating that only education can eradicate poverty. “There’s a saying in Rajasthan—Poot sikhave paalne—a child begins to learn from the cradle,” he remarked. He encouraged families to utilize government-run residential hostels to ensure quality education for their children, helping them become future officers.

Quoting Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, he reminded the audience of the transformative power of education. “You are no less than anyone; believe in your potential and strive to reach higher positions,” he said. The Governor also appealed to all to stay away from addiction, promoting addiction-free families for a better future for children.

He highlighted how schemes like the Kisan Samman Nidhi and Ayushman Bharat Yojana are bringing the poor and tribal communities into the mainstream, while residential schools and hostels are providing free quality education.

“First Governor to Reach Out to Remote Villages” – Minister Kharadi

Tribal Area Development Minister Shri Babulal Kharadi praised the Governor, stating he is the first to personally reach out to people in remote tribal villages. He noted that with the joint efforts of the central and state governments, areas like Kotra have witnessed significant progress. “Earlier, people relied on firewood from forests for cooking. Now, gas stoves have reached homes. Roads and electricity have connected even the remotest villages,” he said, while acknowledging ongoing challenges in some forest regions.

Emotional Interaction with Beneficiaries

The Governor engaged in personal conversations with beneficiaries of government schemes. Shivam, a PM Awas Yojana beneficiary, shared that a pucca house reduced deforestation and improved safety. Ramesh mentioned that his new home protects him during rains, unlike the previous mud hut. Widow Reshmi expressed gratitude for receiving a solid house, education for her children, and an electricity connection. Beneficiary Vita Devi also shared similar benefits from the schemes.

Governor Mesmerised by Folk Culture Performances

During the interaction event at Bilwan, organized under the Tourism Department’s guidance, folk artists presented traditional tribal dances. The Governor was deeply moved by the rare glimpse of rich local culture. The event featured Garasiya folk dance, the iconic Gavari dance of Mewar, Kathodi tribal performances, and the vibrant Dhol dance of Kotra—all of which captivated the audience and left a lasting impression on the Governor.