Edu Incentive in the Name of Madho Singh - A Fitting Tribute to the Tribal Hero

Madho Singh, a legendary figure in India's independence struggle, played a crucial role in uniting Odisha's tribal communities against British colonial rule.

- PROF AB OTA

Born in the 18th century in Ghess of Bargarh district, his leadership and sacrifice made him a symbol of courage and resistance.

Honouring his legacy, the Odisha government has formulated a flagship welfare scheme Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme to incentivize tribal children to continue education from upper primary levels onwards and reduce prevailing high dropout rates.

Early Life and Leadership Born around 1786, Madho Singh inherited the zamindari of Ghess from his father, Arjun Singh Bariha, a respected tribal leader. Raised with values of justice and courage, he governed a zamindari of 20 villages and was deeply disturbed by British exploitation and oppression of tribal communities. A pivotal moment was the mistreatment of his son-in-law, Narayan Singh, the Zamindar of Sonakhan, who was falsely accused and punished for aiding famine-stricken villagers. This injustice solidified Madho Singh's resolve to protect his people and resist colonial dominance.