TFP Bureau, Raipur, April 16, 2025: In a high-level review meeting held at the Bastar Collectorate Hall ‘Prerna,’ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today assessed the progress of various public welfare schemes in the region. Chairing the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for swift implementation of these schemes, directing officials to prioritize and meet the set targets to ensure that the benefits reach the grassroots level.
Addressing the meeting, Shri Sai expressed that the development journey of Bastar needs to continue with speed and momentum. He stated, “Our goal is to ensure that the benefits of all government schemes reach the last mile and the government’s presence is felt in every home.”
The Chief Minister underscored that Bastar, once considered a symbol of backwardness, is now emerging as a gateway to the new possibilities of India. “Every village and every family in Bastar should be connected to the mainstream of development. Schemes like Ayushman, Aadhar, Housing, and Electrification are not just government projects but are guarantees of dignity and security for the common man,” he added.
In line with his vision for the region, Shri Sai highlighted that the youth of Bastar are the state’s greatest asset, stating, “Our mission is to provide them with not just skills, but self-respect. Our mantra is simple: light in every home, employment in every hand, and faith in every heart. This will define the new identity of Bastar and elevate the development story of Chhattisgarh.”
The Chief Minister praised the young and dynamic team of government officials in Bastar and acknowledged the commitment of District Collectors, Superintendents of Police, and all other officers in ensuring the region’s development and peace establishment. He also provided key directives on various aspects of governance.
Key Directives and Emphasis:
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Naxalism Eradication: Chief Minister Sai reaffirmed that the government is working with full dedication for the eradication of Naxalism, with significant progress being made in cooperation with the Central Government. The target is to complete this initiative by March 31, 2026.
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Education and Health Services: He urged timely issuance of caste certificates for students and emphasized preparedness at health centers, particularly during the summer and rainy seasons when health issues are most prevalent.
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Industrial Growth and Employment: Shri Sai highlighted the importance of promoting industries in Bastar, with a focus on Scheduled Castes, women, and local youth. Provisions in the industrial policy have been made to prioritize local employment and self-reliance.
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Connectivity and Infrastructure: The Chief Minister stressed the need for improved infrastructure, including the establishment of mobile network towers in remote areas and the strengthening of transport systems, especially the introduction of regular buses in rural areas to ensure accessible transportation.
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Cultural Integration and Public Engagement: Reflecting on the success of cultural events like the Bastar Olympics, Shri Sai emphasized that public participation in such activities is a clear indication of the desire for development and a break from Naxalism’s influence. He urged officials to take public representatives’ complaints seriously and work with both administrative efficiency and human sensitivity.
Progress and Achievements: During the meeting, Bastar Division Commissioner Shri Doman Singh presented the progress of various schemes. Notable achievements include:
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Ayushman Bharat Scheme: 87.24% achievement.
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Aadhar Card Enrollment: 96.37% completion.
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Electrification: 95.89% of houses electrified, with Kanker district reaching 100% electrification.
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Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana: 93.37% achievement.
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Kisan Credit Card Scheme: 91.55% progress.
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Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana: 82.88% farmers benefitting.
The Chief Minister instructed the team to ensure the completion of all housing projects by December 2025 and to maintain a smooth supply of essential construction materials through panchayats.
Youth Empowerment and Skill Development: Shri Sai also emphasized the importance of connecting local youth with skill development schemes and ensuring 100% placement of trained youth. He instructed officials to actively seek employment opportunities for youth through voluntary organizations.
The review meeting also discussed strengthening communication systems in remote areas, and the importance of ensuring that government benefits reach every eligible beneficiary, especially in tribal-dominated regions.
Deputy Chief Minister’s Remarks: Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma praised the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, highlighting that Bastar is seeing remarkable progress under his guidance. He stressed the need for a focused action plan for Bastar’s specific needs and urged the completion of construction projects before the onset of the monsoon.
Key Officials Present: The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Mr. Amitabh Jain, DGP Mr. Arun Dev Gautam, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Subodh Kumar Singh, and senior officials from various departments, including the District Collectors, Superintendents of Police, and other stakeholders involved in the region’s development.
