TFP Bureau, Raipur, December 9, 2025: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai on Tuesday asserted that Chhattisgarh has entered a transformative phase in its decades-long battle against Naxalism, marking what he described as a “historic turning point” in the state’s journey towards peace and development. Addressing a press conference in Rajnandgaon, he credited the progress to the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, stating that the country is moving with “unprecedented resolve” towards the goal of eliminating Naxalism by 31 March 2026.
The Chief Minister said that sustained operations by security forces over the past two years have significantly weakened the Maoist network. More than 500 extremists have been neutralised, and over 4,000 cadres have either surrendered or been arrested, signalling what he termed the “final phase” of the insurgency. He lauded the courage of security personnel, noting that their efforts have broken the stronghold of violence in Bastar.
Highlighting the state government’s rehabilitation initiatives, Shri Sai said that 15,000 houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have been sanctioned for surrendered cadres. In addition, the government is providing monthly assistance of ₹10,000 for three years, along with skill-training and employment-linked programmes. He said the shift from “the path of bullets to the mainstream” is now visible across Bastar, with initiatives like Pandum Café symbolising social and economic transformation.
The Chief Minister also spoke about improved administrative reach in the region. With the expansion of security camps and development activities, more than 400 displaced villages have been resettled. Through the Niyad Nella Nar Yojana, essential services including roads, electricity, healthcare, drinking water, and schooling are reaching interior habitations. “Places once echoing with gunfire now resonate with school bells,” he remarked, adding that people are now participating freely in elections and accessing everyday services—from ration cards to mobile networks.
Shri Sai underlined that agriculture, irrigation, animal husbandry, minor forest produce, and small industries are emerging as key contributors to economic growth in Bastar. The Industrial Policy 2024–30, he said, offers special incentives for Naxal-affected districts aimed at boosting processing, value addition, and rural enterprise to ensure sustainable livelihoods for local youth.
With tourism officially recognised as an industry, the Chief Minister noted that Bastar is fast gaining international attention. Attractions such as Kutumsar caves, scenic waterfalls, Abujhmad forests, and the region’s vibrant tribal heritage are drawing visitors. He said the growth of home-stays is strengthening the local economy and promoting eco-friendly, community-led tourism.
Concluding his address, Shri Sai dedicated the state’s achievements to the “supreme sacrifice of martyrs, unwavering commitment of security forces, and the trust of the people.” He expressed confidence that Bastar will soon be completely free from Naxalism and progress rapidly along the path of inclusive and sustainable development.
