- Dhansingh Baghel of Bastar to Receive the Prestigious ‘Thakur Pyarelal Singh Award’
In line with the Chhattisgarh government’s tradition of honoring individuals who have made remarkable and inspiring contributions to the cooperative sector, a significant achievement has emerged from the Bastar region this year. The state government has announced that Mr. Dhansingh Baghel—President of the ‘Prathmik Kuduk Machhua evam Nauka Vihar Sahakari Samiti Maryadit’ (Primary Kuduk Fishermen and Boating Cooperative Society) based in Chitrakot, Jagdalpur—will be honored with the state’s prestigious ‘Thakur Pyarelal Singh Award.’
- A Journey from Humble Beginnings to Great Heights: Transforming Traditional Livelihoods into a Cooperative Success Story
In this forested region along the banks of the Indravati River, local villagers once relied solely on traditional fishing, the collection of forest produce, and limited-scale agriculture. Under the guidance of the Fisheries Department, Mr. Dhansingh Baghel laid the foundation for this cooperative society in 2009, initially organizing 42 members. Following early struggles, the society began a new chapter in 2014 by securing leases for the Chitrakot irrigation reservoir and the ‘Ravan Munda’ (water body) under the local Gram Panchayat for fisheries. Recognizing the tourism potential of the famous Chitrakot Waterfall, the society—with support from the Cooperative Department—introduced boating services, which have since become the cornerstone of their success.
- A Story of Self-Reliance and Economic Progress
Currently, the society comprises 62 members (41 men and 21 women) and has become a robust hub for self-reliance in Bastar. The society now produces 1,980 kilograms of fish annually from the reservoir and 3,600 kilograms from the river, generating an annual income of approximately 9.5 lakh rupees. Providing boating facilities for tourists generates an additional annual income of approximately ₹8 lakh. The committee’s average annual net profit has now reached ₹10 lakh, with a remarkable net profit of ₹8,32,985 recorded in the 2024-25 financial year alone.
- A New Benchmark for Self-Reliance and Improved Living Standards
Currently, the committee is well-equipped with robust safety measures, including 250 life jackets, 7 boats, and modern gear. Having been bolstered by initial government schemes and grants, the committee has now become entirely self-reliant. Through its own hard work and financial strength, the committee has constructed a fish-landing center and purchased a pickup vehicle for transportation.
This cooperative model has brought about a revolutionary change in the living standards of 62 families in Bastar. Today, through their own efforts, members of these families are not only able to afford amenities like motorcycles but are also fully capable of providing a better, high-quality education for their children. The capable leadership and vision of Shri Dhansingh Baghel have proven that by strategically combining local resources, the power of cooperation, and tourism, it is possible to transform both the fortunes and the overall landscape of life for people in forest regions. His achievement has brought great joy across the entire Bastar region.