Kumar Bahukhandi
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai addressing a press conference on Monday December 8, 2025 at Rajnandgaon-Photo Credit -CG/PR
Rajnadgaon : Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai during a presse ponference at Rajnandgaon on Monday December 8, 2025 said that the two years of the Chhattisgarh government’s tenure have proven to be a decisive turning point in the state’s history. Chief Minister Sai said that Chhattisgarh is rapidly progressing towards the goal set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah – “complete elimination of Naxalism from the entire country by March 31, 2026.”
He said that Naxalism has been crippled and is now on its last legs. on Monday December 8, 2025
Chief Minister Sai added that security forces have achieved unprecedented success in the last two years. More than 500 Maoists have been neutralised in encounters, while over 4,000 Naxalites have surrendered or been arrested, which is a clear indication of the weakening of Naxalism. He said that the valor of the security forces has given a decisive edge against the violence that had plagued Bastar for decades.
He also provided detailed information about the state government’s new rehabilitation policy. This includes the approval of 15,000 Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme) houses for surrendered Naxalites, monthly financial assistance of Rs. 10,000 for three years, skill development training, and employment-related programs. The Chief Minister said that “leaving the path of violence and joining the mainstream” is now becoming a reality in Bastar. Innovations like the Pandum Cafe are symbols of social change.
CM Sai noted that with the rapid opening of security camps and increased administrative reach in Bastar, more than 400 villages have been repopulated. Through the Niyad Nella Nar scheme, basic services such as roads, electricity, drinking water, healthcare facilities, and education are reaching these areas. The Chief Minister said, “Where once the sound of gunfire was heard, today school bells are ringing. The national flag has been hoisted in many villages after many years, people are participating fearlessly in elections, and facilities ranging from ration cards to mobile networks are now easily available.”
Chief Minister Sai described Bastar as a major center for future development, stating that unprecedented opportunities are emerging in agriculture, irrigation, forest products, animal husbandry, and small-scale industries besides tourism .
He said that the new industrial policy (2024–30) includes special provisions for Naxal-affected areas.
By promoting value addition to forest products, processing, and rural entrepreneurship, local youth are being provided with employment and sustainable income.
Chief Minister Sai said that with tourism being granted industry status, Bastar is rapidly gaining recognition on the global map. The Kutumsar Caves, waterfalls, the forests of Abujhmarh, and the tribal cultural heritage are becoming major tourist attractions. The homestay model is flourishing and strengthening the rural economy.
In his closing note , the Chief Minister said that this historic progress in eliminating 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 line with the resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, Bastar will be freed from Naxalism and join the mainstream of development, CM Sai affirmed .
