Rebirth of Vantangiya: Celebration of Hope and Transformation As part of Hon’ble Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's 'Zero Poverty' vision—the Gonda district administration is preparing to celebrate the Vantangiya Mahotsav 2.0 on 27 October 2024. This initiative aims to uplift the Vantangiya community in Maheshpur and Ramgarh villages by sharing the joy of Diwali and addressing their socio-economic challenges. The festival has garnered significant attention in recent years due to the transformative impact it has had on the community. According to Hon'ble Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the residents of the Vantangiya community now enjoy improved living standards and greater access to essential amenities. Vantangiya Community: A Historical Overview The Vantangiya community is among the most marginalised groups in Uttar Pradesh, deeply rooted in the forests of the region. Historically, this community has a unique connection to the land, dating back to the British colonial era. During this time, the British government initiated extensive logging of local Sakhu trees to facilitate railway construction. In 1918, poor landless labourers were settled in these forests to help regenerate and maintain the tree population. This led to the establishment of five settlements, including Jungle Tikonia No. 3, Rajhi Khale Tola, Rajhi Nursery, Ambag Nursery, and Chilbilwa. The community adopted the 'Tangiya method' from Burma, which is reflected in their name, Vantangiya. Despite their long-standing presence and contributions to the environment, the Vantangiya families have continued to struggle with poverty and lack access to essential services. This festival aims to change that narrative and living standards. Objectives of the Vantangiya Mahotsav 2.0 The Vantangiya Mahotsav 2.0 is not merely a festive event; it serves multiple objectives: - **Essential Support:** Families will receive essential items such as clothing, daily-use goods, and other necessities, helping to alleviate immediate financial burdens. - **Health Awareness:** Health camps will be conducted prior to the festival, providing free health check-ups, particularly focusing on women and children. These initiatives are designed to raise awareness about health and hygiene within the community. - **Poverty Alleviation:** The overarching aim is to connect the Vantangiya families with long-term poverty alleviation programmes, thus improving their overall living conditions and enabling them to celebrate Diwali with dignity and happiness. Preparations and Community Involvement To ensure the success of the Vantangiya Mahotsav, essential preparations are underway. Special cleanliness drives and health camps are scheduled for 24 and 25 October, aimed at fostering awareness regarding hygiene and health among the villagers. Under the guidance of the Chief Medical Officer, these camps will provide eye exams and other essential medical services at free of cost. The responsibility for overseeing the event has been entrusted to the District Panchayat Raj Officer and the Block Development Officer of Nawabganj. They are tasked with ensuring that all activities run smoothly and that every villager benefits from the festivities. A Unique Relationship: CM Yogi Adityanath and the Vantangiya People The bond between Hon’ble Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and the Vantangiya community is remarkable. Residents of Vantangiya village hold him in high esteem, often likening his presence to that of Prabhu Shri Ram. This deep respect is reflected in the annual tradition where the Chief Minister lights the Diwali lamp in the village, symbolising hope and prosperity. The current government has significantly transformed the Vantangiya community. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been celebrating Diwali with them for over a decade, with formal celebrations beginning in 2009. Since then, he has provided numerous facilities and essential resources to support their needs. The Vantangiya community truly holds a special place in the Chief Minister's heart. Conclusion The Vantangiya Mahotsav 2.0 is more than just a festive celebration; it represents a critical step towards the empowerment of one of Uttar Pradesh's most underprivileged communities. By combining material support with health services and educational awareness, the Gonda district administration aims to pave the way for sustainable development. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to celebrate important cultural festivals like Diwali with dignity. As the festival approaches, it promises not only to bring joy to the Vantangiya families of Maheshpur and Ramgarh but also to ignite a sense of hope and community spirit that can lead to lasting change. Through this celebration, the Chief Minister's 'Zero Poverty' vision is set to resonate deeply within the hearts and lives of the Vantangiya people, helping them forge a brighter future.