SUMAN K SHRIVASTAVA
Nemra (Ramgarh), August 13: Chief Minister Hemant Soren, camping in his ancestral village Nemra in Ramgarh district to perform rituals following the demise of his father, former CM and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founder Shibu Soren, is using the visit to underline his government’s commitment to a village-first development approach.
Earlier reports noted that Soren has been in Nemra since the ceremonies began, engaging with relatives, community elders, and party workers. This week, he expanded his outreach by meeting farmers and villagers, inspecting agricultural activities, and sharing his vision for rural growth.
From Ritual Stay to Development Dialogue
Walking along the narrow trails of Nemra, surrounded by lush green fields and waving tree branches, the Chief Minister stopped to speak with farmers and women planting paddy in Barmasiya and Barka River Doin. He inquired about rainfall patterns, irrigation availability, and access to fertilisers and seeds, while also listening to their problems and suggestions.
He encouraged farmers to make greater use of local rainwater for agriculture, pointing to state schemes that channel water from small seasonal rivers to fields through check dams. “Improve your farming with local resources and increase your income. The government stands with you and is ready to help,” he said.
Linking Legacy to Governance
Political observers note that the Nemra stay blends personal sentiment with policy signaling. Soren repeatedly invoked the ideals of his father, who championed grassroots politics and the protection of Jharkhand’s “jal, jungle, zameen” (water, forest, land). He described these not only as natural resources but as the “soul of Jharkhand,” central to its identity and cultural heritage.
“Our government is committed to every possible step in the interest of farmers and the development of villages. Village development is state development,” he told residents, adding that policies will focus on rural infrastructure, irrigation, road connectivity, and education.
Balancing Nature and Growth
Soren, who spent his childhood in Nemra, recalled the cool breezes, green fields, and flowing rivers that shaped his upbringing. He said such natural beauty—often sought by travellers in far-off lands—exists in abundance in Jharkhand’s villages, making environmental preservation critical.
“True progress is when development works in harmony with the environment and local traditions,” he said, urging villagers to remain vigilant about conserving and promoting natural resources.
As his stay continues, officials expect further announcements that could shape Jharkhand’s rural development strategy in the months ahead.