Staff Reporter

Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav announced that the Pachmarhi Sanctuary will now be known as Raja Bhabhut Singh Pachmarhi Sanctuary, paying tributes to the legendary tribal leader’s environmental stewardship and lifelong efforts to protect the region from foreign forces. The sanctuary will feature displays highlighting Raja Bhabhut Singh’s life, struggles, valour and contributions, aiming to boost local pride and strengthen the sanctuary’s identity as a symbol of the region’s historical and natural significance.

Addressing the Council of Ministers at Raj Bhavan in Pachmarhi, Dr Yadav emphasised Raja Bhabhut Singh’s profound influence on tribal communities, noting that his tales of bravery remain alive in local folklore. The meeting was held in Pachmarhi to honour his contributions and bring his legacy to the forefront.
A key figure in the 1857 Indian Rebellion, Raja Bhabhut Singh was a close ally of freedom fighter Tatya Tope. Known as the ‘Shivaji of Narmadanchal’ for his guerrilla warfare tactics, he resisted British forces until his capture and execution in 1860, despite prolonged efforts by the Madras Infantry to apprehend him.

Raja Bhabhut Singh’s valour is preserved in oral traditions of Korku community through folk songs and hymns, resonating in Pachmarhi’s villages, temples, and cultural practices. His legacy, also documented in British officer Elliot’s 1865 Settlement Report, stands as a symbol of tribal pride, patriotism and spiritual strength. Dr Yadav described him as an inspirational figure whose sacrifices must be celebrated nationally.

The Chief Minister announced three tribal-focused conventions in June: a Baiga convention in Dindori’s Bajag on June 7, a Kol convention in Shahdol’s Byohari on June 9 to mark Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary and a Saharia convention in Shivpuri’s Kolaras on June 18.

Additionally, events celebrating 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s welfare initiatives will be held across the State from June 9 to 21, alongside commemorations for former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s birth centenary, given his deep connection to Madhya Pradesh.
Dr Yadav was felicitated by the Council of Ministers for successful Women Empowerment Mahasammelan in Bhopal on May 31, attended by two lakh women and graced by PM Modi marking Ahilyabai Holkar’s 300th birth anniversary. The council’s female members presented bouquets to express gratitude on behalf of the state’s women.

Highlighting recent achievements, Dr Yadav noted the inauguration of new airports in Datia and Satna, Indore Metro, and the release of funds for 1,271 Atal Gram Sushasan Bhavans by PM Modi. He praised Khandwa district for topping the nation in water conservation under the ‘Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan’ from April 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, with Madhya Pradesh ranking fourth among states.
Ongoing Jal Ganga Samvardhan campaign, running until June 30, was also highlighted, with a call to ministers and public representatives to promote water conservation.

Dr Yadav announced a Health and Wellness Summit in Ujjain on June 5, focusing on yoga, Ayurveda, naturopathy, spirituality and mental health to position Madhya Pradesh as a global wellness hub. The summit will attract spiritual leaders, AYUSH experts, policymakers, wellness tourism operators, and investors. Dr Yadav paid tributes to spiritual saint Dada Guru, known for living solely on Narmada water. The Council of Ministers’ meeting began with the singing of Vande Mataram and included a film on Raja Bhabhut Singh and the region’s heritage. Ministers Rakesh Singh and Uday Pratap Singh welcomed Dr Yadav and the council with bouquets, shawls and Korku community symbols. The meeting concluded with the national anthem.