Chhattisgarh has created a new history in eradicating Naxalism - Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai
Raipur, - Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, during a press conference held in Rajnandgaon today, stated that the two years of the Chhattisgarh government's tenure have proven to be a turning point in the state's history. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Chhattisgarh is rapidly progressing towards the goal set by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah—to completely eradicate Naxalism from the entire country by March 31, 2026. He stated that Naxalism has been broken and is now breathing its last. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that security forces have achieved unprecedented success in the last two years. More than 500 Maoists have been neutralized in encounters, while more than 4,000 Naxalites have surrendered or been arrested, a clear indication of the weakening of Naxalism. He stated that the bravery of the security forces has led to a decisive breakthrough against the decades-long violence in Bastar. He also detailed the state government's new rehabilitation policy. This includes the approval of 15,000 Prime Minister's houses for surrendered Naxalites, monthly financial assistance of ₹10,000 for three years, skill development training, and employment programs. The Chief Minister said that abandoning the language of gunfire and joining the mainstream is now becoming a reality in Bastar. Innovations like the Pandum Café symbolize social change. He said that with the rapid opening of security camps and increased administrative outreach in Bastar, more than 400 villages have been repopulated. Through the Niyyad Nella Naar scheme, basic services like roads, electricity, drinking water, healthcare, and education are reaching these areas. The Chief Minister said, "Where there used to be gunfire, school bells are now ringing. Flag hoisting has taken place in many villages after years, people are fearlessly participating in elections, and facilities ranging from ration cards to mobile networks are now readily available." Describing Bastar as a major hub of future development, Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that unprecedented opportunities are emerging for agriculture, irrigation, forest products, animal husbandry, and small industries. He stated that the new Industrial Policy (2024-30) has made special provisions for Naxal-affected areas. By promoting forest-produce-based value addition, processing, and rural entrepreneurship, local youth are being connected to employment and sustainable income. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that with tourism being granted industrial status, Bastar is rapidly gaining recognition on the global map. The Kutumsar Caves, waterfalls, Abujhmad forests, and tribal cultural heritage are becoming global attractions. The home-stay model is rapidly flourishing and strengthening the rural economy. Finally, the Chief Minister stated that this historic progress in eradicating Naxalism is a victory for the state's martyred soldiers, the tireless efforts of the security forces, and the trust of the people. He expressed confidence that, in accordance with the resolve of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Bastar will be freed from Naxalism and join the mainstream of development.
