In a strong and clear message of transformation, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday chaired a divisional-level review meeting at the ‘Prerna’ conference hall of Bastar Collectorate. The session was dedicated to assessing the progress of government schemes, reinforcing peace initiatives, and accelerating developmental goals in the state’s tribal heartland.
CM Sai, who has repeatedly underlined Bastar’s potential as the gateway to “New India,” told officials that the region’s development journey must no longer stall but gather unstoppable momentum. He urged administrative heads to ensure that welfare schemes reach the last person in line, stressing that the government’s focus is not on charity, but on dignity, empowerment, and security for every resident.
“Bastar is no longer the symbol of backwardness, but the doorway to new possibilities for India,” said Sai. “Our goal is to link every village and every family here to the mainstream of development. Programs like Ayushman Bharat, Aadhar enrollment, housing schemes, and electrification are not mere government initiatives — they represent the dignity and protection of ordinary citizens.”
Youth, Employment, and Trust — The Pillars of New Bastar
The Chief Minister underscored the role of Bastar’s youth as the region’s “greatest capital,” emphasizing that the state seeks to give them not just skill, but self-respect. “Our new mantra is: Light in every home, employment for every hand, and trust in every heart. This will define the new identity of Bastar and push Chhattisgarh’s development story to new heights.”
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He also praised the enthusiasm and commitment of district collectors, superintendents of police, and all administrative officers, who, he noted, are visibly energetic and dedicated toward establishing peace and prosperity in the region.
Full-Scale Fight Against Naxalism
Addressing the ongoing battle against Naxalism, CM Sai reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating the menace entirely. Backed by strong cooperation from the central government, the anti-Naxal mission is being pursued with clear dedication and tactical precision, with a target for total elimination by March 31, 2026.
“The courage and strategic work of our security forces have led to significant successes, and the government stands fully behind them in this crucial fight,” the Chief Minister asserted.
Infrastructure Push: Housing, Roads, and Connectivity
Sai instructed the administration to speed up construction work, especially given the approaching monsoon season. He placed special emphasis on finishing incomplete projects, including the much-anticipated launch of regular flights from Jagdalpur Airport and faster execution of national highway and other infrastructure projects.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the acute need for strengthening rural transportation, urging officials to ensure regular bus services so that people in remote areas have safe and reliable commuting options.
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Addressing the digital divide, Sai acknowledged that mobile network gaps often disrupt services like Aadhaar, banking, and ration delivery. He directed relevant agencies to resolve connectivity issues promptly and ensure the installation of communication towers in remote regions.
Industrial Growth with Local Employment at Its Core
Sai stressed the importance of fostering industry in Bastar, pointing out that the state’s industrial policy prioritizes jobs for Scheduled Castes, women, and local youth, promoting both employment and self-reliance. “Our goal is to ensure that local people are not left behind but empowered at every level of this industrial expansion.”
During the review, Bastar Division Commissioner Doman Singh presented progress reports showing notable achievements:
– Ayushman Bharat coverage has reached 87.24 percent.
– Aadhaar enrollment has achieved 96.37 percent.
– PM Matru Vandana Yojana reported 93.37 percent progress.
– Electrification now covers 95.89 percent of homes across the region, with Kanker district achieving 100 percent coverage, and Bastar and Kondagaon crossing 99 percent. Remaining areas are slated for completion by December 2025.
The Kisan Credit Card scheme has reached 91.55 percent of its target, while PM Kisan Samman Nidhi benefits are flowing to 82.88 percent of eligible farmers. In Jan Dhan accounts, 90.79 percent of beneficiaries have been registered. The CM also ordered faster resolution of revenue-related cases like name transfers, boundary disputes, and document corrections.
Building Trust Beyond Development
Sai emphasized the success of cultural movements like the Bastar Olympics and Bastar Pandum festival, which reflect people’s growing inclination towards peace and progress and away from extremist ideologies. “The people’s participation in these events is proof that they want development, not destruction,” he said.
He urged officers to handle public representatives’ concerns with respect and patience, adding that administrative efficiency must be matched by human sensitivity. “The trust of Bastar’s people is our most valuable asset, and we must safeguard it through sincere and committed governance.”
Deputy CM and Officials Echo Development Goals
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma also addressed the meeting, noting that Bastar, under CM Sai’s leadership, is scripting a new narrative of progress. He urged all construction work to be completed before the monsoon and emphasized need-based planning for the unique requirements of the region.
The review was attended by top state officials including Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain, DGP Arun Dev Gautam, Principal Secretary to CM Subodh Kumar Singh, CM’s Secretary Rahul Bhagat, PCCF Srinivas Rao, divisional commissioners, police IGs, collectors, SPs, DFOs, Zila Panchayat CEOs, municipal commissioners, and department heads.
