Nilgarh Relocation: Shivraj Singh Chouhan Announces Rs 15 Lakh Package for Displaced Families
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announces a Rs 15 lakh rehabilitation package and land for tribal families relocating from Nilgarh.
In a significant move to support tribal communities relocating for environmental conservation, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has announced a comprehensive rehabilitation package for families being moved from Nilgarh to Naya Nilgarh. The initiative aims to facilitate the protection of forests and wildlife by relocating residents from sensitive areas.
A Comprehensive Support System
The rehabilitation package is designed to ensure that displaced families can rebuild their lives with dignity and security. According to the Union Minister, each relocating family will receive a total package of Rs 15 lakh. This financial aid includes a specific allocation of Rs 5 lakh dedicated to the construction of a new house.
Beyond monetary compensation, the government is addressing the livelihood needs of the tribal families. Those moving to Naya Nilgarh will be provided with five acres of agricultural land situated along the highway, ensuring they have the means to continue farming and sustain their families.
Honouring the Sacrifice for Nature
Speaking about the emotional weight of the relocation, Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed deep gratitude toward the villagers. He noted that these families had resided in Nilgarh for many years and were making a profound sacrifice by leaving behind their ancestral homes, villages, and land for the greater cause of protecting wildlife and forest ecosystems.
"I first pay my respects to their sacrifice. It is a sacrifice to leave one’s home and village for the sake of forests and wildlife," the Minister stated.
The Minister revealed that the decision to provide this enhanced rehabilitation package was initiated during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, reflecting a long-term commitment to the welfare of the displaced residents.
An Emotional Farewell
The transition from Nilgarh to Naya Nilgarh is marked by a poignant community gathering. The families invited the Union Minister and the local MLA to their final program in Nilgarh-Dhanwani—an event they have traditionally organized for several years. Minister Chouhan confirmed his attendance at this emotional gathering to personally honor the families for their contribution to environmental preservation.
Broader Focus on Farmer Welfare
This announcement comes amidst the Minister's wider efforts to support the agricultural sector. Recently, on October 22, Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ from Taraori in the Karnal district of Haryana.
During a Kisan Chaupal held as part of this campaign, the Minister emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Central Government prioritizes the dignity and self-respect of the farming community. Chouhan described himself not as a high-ranking official, but as a committed farmer and a servant of the farming community, reiterating that serving farmers remains his highest duty.