- “We must erase every trace of Naxalism and restore Bastar to a state of joy, vibrancy, and prosperity,” says Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah.
- “The Central Government stands firmly—like a rock—alongside the Chhattisgarh Government to ensure the rehabilitation and self-reliance of every individual affected by Naxal violence,” says Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah.
- “Our top priority now is to steer a Naxal-free Bastar rapidly along the path of development and prosperity,” says Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai.
- “With the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the firm resolve of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Bastar is now free from Naxalism; it is time to write a new chapter of development,” says Chief Minister Shri Sai.
- “Through the ‘Niyad Nellanar’ (Our Good Village) initiative, the light of development is reaching remote areas, while ‘Seva Deras’ (Service Camps) will open up new avenues for employment and self-employment,” says Chief Minister Shri Sai.
- “Over 200 security camps in Bastar will be transformed into ‘Shaheed Veer Gundadhur Seva Deras’—shifting their focus from mere security to becoming hubs of service and development.”
- “A three-day free distribution camp for artificial limbs and assistive devices for persons with disabilities has been inaugurated in Dantewada, set to benefit 768 individuals.”
- “Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai participated in the event via video conferencing.”
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah stated that with the end of Naxalism, our primary responsibility is to heal the wounds it has left behind, rehabilitate the victims, and provide them with the opportunity to lead a life of dignity. For five decades, Naxalism inflicted deep suffering upon the poor and tribal families of Bastar. Now, we must eradicate every vestige of Naxalism and transform Bastar back into a vibrant, prosperous, and thriving region. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central Government is fully committed to the rehabilitation of every person with a disability, as well as those affected by Naxalite violence. The Government of India stands like a rock alongside the Government of Chhattisgarh in fulfilling this resolve.
Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah addressed—via video conferencing—a ceremony held in Dantewada for the free distribution of artificial limbs and assistive devices to persons with disabilities. The event was part of the ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan’ (Service and Resolve Campaign), organized to mark the completion of 25 years of service and dedication by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in his roles as Chief Minister and Prime Minister. During the event, he also inaugurated the second phase of the camp. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai also participated in the program via video conferencing.
In the three-day camp held in Dantewada from October 15 to 17, a total of 768 persons with disabilities from the Dantewada, Bijapur, and Sukma districts will be provided with artificial limbs and various assistive devices. This includes 509 individuals from Dantewada district, 197 from Bijapur, and 62 from Sukma. The camp is being organized with the support of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, Jaipur, and other partner organizations.
- Naxalism has come to an end; now, its lingering pain and traces must also be erased: Shri Amit Shah
In his address, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah stated that the ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan’ is being conducted across the country to commemorate the completion of 25 years of public service by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi as Chief Minister and Prime Minister. As part of this initiative, efforts are being made in Chhattisgarh to improve the lives of tribal individuals—who have disabilities resulting from Naxalite violence—by providing them with artificial limbs and assistive devices.
He noted that more than 3,600 persons with disabilities benefited from a camp held in Jagdalpur between October 5 and 7, 2026. This included over 1,570 beneficiaries from the Bastar region alone. This figure reflects the suffering that the poor and tribal families of Bastar have endured for decades.
Union Home Minister Shri Shah stated that Naxalites have left innocent civilians disabled through IED blasts—a violation of human rights than which there can be none greater. He noted that the Modi government had firmly resolved to eradicate Naxalism from the country by March 31, 2026, and today, Naxalism has indeed been brought to an end.
The Union Home Minister emphasized that merely ending Naxalism will not erase five decades of suffering; the wounds must be healed. Those affected by Naxalite violence must be helped to stand on their own feet once again, and arrangements must be ensured for them to lead a life of dignity.
He added that new joy can be brought into the lives of those living with disabilities by providing them with aids such as wheelchairs, tricycles, crutches, hearing aids, smart walking sticks, and artificial limbs. Several organizations—including the Government of Chhattisgarh, the district administration, the Social Welfare Department, the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (Jaipur), and the Bharatiya Jain Sangh—have made significant contributions to this service initiative.
Acknowledging the support of Bastar’s traditional tribal leadership, Union Home Minister Shri Shah highlighted the vital role played by the local tribal community in the struggle against Naxalism and in driving positive change across the region.
- Transforming the face of Bastar through initiatives like ‘Bastar Olympics,’ ‘Bastar Pandum,’ and ‘Niyad Nellanar.’
Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah commended the efforts of the Chhattisgarh government toward fostering peace and development in Bastar. He noted that through initiatives such as the ‘Bastar Olympics,’ ‘Bastar Pandum,’ ‘Niyad Nellanar,’ and the ‘Mukhyamantri Gramin Bus Yojana’ (Chief Minister’s Rural Bus Scheme), the state government has…Significant work has been done to restore joy and vibrancy to Bastar.
He noted that in a region once defined by the sounds of gunfire and explosions—an environment gripped by fear—thousands of young people are now participating in sports and keeping their traditions alive. The ‘Bastar Olympics’ has provided the youth with a platform to showcase their talents, while ‘Bastar Pandum’ has served as a major initiative to revive tribal art, culture, and traditions.
Shri Shah stated that through the ‘Niyad Nellanar’ scheme, basic amenities are being extended to the remote areas of Bastar. Regions that remained deprived of essential facilities for five decades are now seeing the expansion of basic infrastructure and public welfare schemes.
- Significant initiatives for the rehabilitation of 8,526 surrendered Naxalites
Highlighting the achievements in rehabilitation and development within Naxal-affected regions, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah stated that approximately 8,526 Naxalites have surrendered.
He shared that bank accounts have been opened for 7,328 individuals who previously did not have one. Furthermore, 1,620 individuals have received reward money, and 7,882 have been provided with incentive payments. Additionally, 455 individuals have been given employment, and 129 have been allotted land.
He mentioned that 4,014 houses have been provided under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana’. Moreover, 2,308 tribal individuals have undergone skill development training, enabling them to become self-reliant through employment or self-employment opportunities.
The Union Home Minister further noted that 6,763 new ration cards have been issued, and 2,808 families have been provided with free electricity. To expand connectivity and transport infrastructure in the region, 372 new road projects have been initiated, and 670 culverts are currently under construction.
He stated that 48,526 Aadhaar cards have been issued, and 44 panchayats have been recognized and awarded under the ‘Ilwad Panchayat Puraskar’.
Shri Shah remarked that these efforts represent significant steps toward integrating the people of Naxal-affected areas into the mainstream of development and bringing about lasting, positive change in their lives.
- Over 200 security camps to be transformed into ‘Shaheed Veer Gundadhur Seva Dera’
Highlighting a key initiative for the development of Bastar, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah noted that more than 500 security camps were established during operations against Naxalism. Of these, over 200 camps will now be developed into ‘Shaheed Veer Gundadhur Seva Dera’ (Service Centers).
He mentioned that the very locations where security personnel once sat to ensure the safety of the people will now serve as hubs for officials from the Government of India and the Government of Chhattisgarh to lay the foundation for a developed Bastar.
Shri Shah expressed confidence that these public service centers would provide fresh momentum to development and public welfare initiatives in Bastar, ultimately realizing the vision of a developed Bastar.
Our goal is to transform a Naxal-free Bastar into the nation’s most developed tribal region: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai
In his address, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai stated that, thanks to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the firm resolve of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Chhattisgarh has been liberated from the decades-old challenge of Naxalism. This historic achievement was made possible through the indomitable courage, valor, and sacrifices of our brave security forces, combined with the cooperation of the people of Bastar.
The Chief Minister paid respectful tribute to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the struggle against Naxalism, as well as to the innocent villagers who lost their lives due to Naxal-related violence. He stated that there was a time when it seemed difficult to believe that Naxalism could ever be completely eradicated from Chhattisgarh. However, under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and through the firm resolve of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, we have achieved this goal today.
On behalf of the three crore people of Chhattisgarh—and especially the residents of Bastar—Chief Minister Shri Sai expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah.
He noted that in this decisive battle against Naxalism, the people of Bastar extended their full support to the security forces. The local population longed for freedom from fear and violence; they aspired to embrace peace, security, and the mainstream of development. This trust and cooperation from the public played a pivotal role in the success of this campaign.
The Chief Minister remarked that due to Naxalism, Bastar had lagged behind in the race for development. Now, the time has come to accelerate the region’s progress. Our government is committed to transforming Bastar into one of the most developed tribal regions in the country.
He added that Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah has assured that Bastar will be developed into the nation’s most advanced tribal division. Through the coordinated efforts of the Central and State governments, work is being carried out with complete dedication to realize this objective.
Where there was once only fear and violence, facilities for education, healthcare, and development are now reaching.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai stated that through the ‘Niyad Nellanar’ scheme, the state government is bringing the light of development to remote areas of Bastar that had remained deprived of basic amenities for decades.
He shared that today, more than 500 villages have gained access to roads and electricity. Furthermore, initiatives such as providing piped drinking water to households and extending telecommunication services…Expansion work is being carried out rapidly.
The Chief Minister stated that 431 schools have been opened in these areas, and arrangements are being made for hospitals to expand healthcare facilities. The expansion of education and healthcare services is providing better opportunities for children, women, and families in remote regions.
He noted that, in the past, people in many villages could not even obtain ration cards and faced significant hardships in securing their rations. Now, this issue is being addressed by establishing ration shops directly within the villages.
The Chief Minister emphasized that his government is committed to ensuring that the benefits of state schemes reach the last village and the last person in Bastar. Following the liberation from Naxalism, top priority is now being given to the expansion of education, healthcare, roads, electricity, drinking water, and communication infrastructure in Bastar.
- From Security Camps to Service Centers: A New Chapter of Transformation in Bastar
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the security camps established during the campaign against Naxalism in Bastar played a crucial role in fostering an environment of peace and security. These camps are now being transformed into centers for service and development.
He explained that the state government has made a firm commitment to convert these security camps—as they are vacated—into ‘Seva Dera’ (Service Hubs). These centers will host training programs and livelihood-related activities tailored to local needs, thereby creating employment and self-employment opportunities for the youth and rural families.
The Chief Minister shared that the first ‘Seva Dera’ has been established in Netanar, the village of the great folk hero and martyr, Veer Gundadhur. Here, local residents are receiving training in tailoring and embroidery. Additionally, livelihood initiatives have been launched, such as the packaging of tamarind—which is naturally abundant in the forests of Bastar—and the processing of rice using the traditional ‘dhenki’ (manual husking) method. He stated that in the near future, various training programs and livelihood-related activities—tailored to local resources and needs—will be conducted at other service-oriented centers (seva deras).
The Chief Minister remarked that this represents a new face of the transformation taking place in Bastar. Places that once required the deployment of security forces will now become hubs for public service, skill development, and new opportunities for economic self-reliance.
Expansion of agriculture, animal husbandry, and irrigation facilities will boost the income of families in Bastar.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated that for the holistic development of Bastar, the state government is prioritizing agriculture, animal husbandry, and local livelihoods, alongside education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
He mentioned that to promote animal husbandry in the region, families are being provided with two cows each. An agreement has also been signed for dairy development, aimed at increasing the income of rural families and empowering them economically.
The Chief Minister announced that approximately 2,000 crore rupees have been sanctioned for major irrigation projects on the Indravati River at Deurgaon and Matnar. Once completed, these projects will provide irrigation facilities for about 80,000 acres of agricultural land.
He added that the expansion of irrigation facilities will make farming more profitable for cultivators, boost agricultural production, and provide a new impetus to the rural economy.
The Chief Minister affirmed that the state government, utilizing its own resources and with the support of the central government, will continue to work consistently toward the comprehensive development of Bastar.
Restoring self-confidence in the lives of our differently-abled brothers and sisters is our responsibility: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai noted that many innocent villagers in Bastar have lost limbs due to Naxalite violence. IED blasts have inflicted lifelong suffering upon numerous families. It is the responsibility of our government to make life easier for these affected individuals, guide them toward self-reliance, and provide them with the opportunity to live a life of dignity. He stated that, with this objective, the state government—in collaboration with partner organizations such as the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, Jaipur—is providing artificial limbs, calipers, tricycles, wheelchairs, hearing aids, and other assistive devices to persons with disabilities.
The Chief Minister informed that a total of 768 individuals will benefit through the camp organized in Dantewada, including 509 persons with disabilities from Dantewada district, 197 from Bijapur, and 62 from Sukma.
He remarked that for those who lost limbs due to Naxalite violence, receiving artificial limbs will instill new hope and self-confidence in their lives. For individuals who have struggled for years with mobility or performing daily tasks, these devices will prove to be a significant aid.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the goal is not merely to provide assistive devices, but to offer every affected individual the opportunity to live with self-respect and integrate into the mainstream of society.
He expressed his gratitude to the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, Jaipur, and other organizations for their support in this noble endeavor.
Extending his best wishes for Sharadiya Navratri, the Chief Minister prayed to Goddess Danteshwari for the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state.
The campaign to alleviate the suffering of those affected by Naxalite violence will continue: Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma.
Addressing the event, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma spoke of the suffering endured by families affected by Naxalite violence, noting that IEDs planted by Naxalites…have impacted the lives of many innocent villagers.
He stated that some fell victim to IED blasts while playing in their villages, some while walking along the edges of their fields, and others during their daily routines. Some lost an arm, others a leg, and some even lost their eyesight. Naxalite violence has inflicted such suffering upon the innocent people of Bastar that it is difficult to even imagine.
Shri Sharma noted that despite these arduous circumstances, the people of Bastar never wavered in their resolve to be free from Naxalism. It is due to this steadfast belief of the people and the courage of the security forces that Bastar is now free from Naxalism.
He added that Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah has issued clear directives that the campaign for the rehabilitation and support of those affected by Naxalite violence must continue without interruption.
The Deputy Chief Minister affirmed that the state government and the public representatives of Bastar are committed to ensuring that aid reaches every person in need. It remains our endeavor to ensure that no individual affected by Naxalite violence is left without rehabilitation and the necessary support.
- New hope returns to the lives of persons with disabilities following the provision of artificial limbs.
During the event, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah interacted with the persons with disabilities and learned about their experiences.
Madkam Munna, a police personnel with a disability from Sukma district, shared that his left leg was severely damaged in an IED blast while on patrol in 2013, necessitating an amputation. With the provision of an artificial leg, he is now able to walk again and is prepared to continue serving the nation.
Chandrayya Sapka, a resident of Dharmaram in Bijapur district, recounted his ordeal in the local Gondi dialect. He explained that in 2012, while heading to the Chintawagu River to fish, he lost his right leg in an IED blast planted by Naxalites. Following the receipt of an artificial leg at the camp, he is now able to walk once more—a deeply emotional and memorable moment in his life. Similarly, Ajay Sori and Kosi Podiam—individuals from Jawanga and Metapal in Dantewada district who have had physical disabilities (orthopedic impairments) since birth—expressed their happiness upon receiving tricycles. They noted that this would greatly facilitate their daily mobility.
The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the central and state governments, as well as the partner organizations, for this thoughtful initiative.
- Government committed to realizing the vision of a developed Bastar
Speaking at the event, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah expressed his confidence that a Bastar free from Naxalism would now move toward a new path of development and prosperity. He stated that efforts toward the rehabilitation of those affected by Naxalism, support for persons with disabilities, and the extension of basic amenities to remote areas would continue to be prioritized.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai stated that, under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the Chhattisgarh government is working with full commitment toward the holistic development of Bastar.
He noted that with the establishment of peace and security in Bastar, new opportunities have opened up in the sectors of education, healthcare, employment, agriculture, tourism, culture, and infrastructure.
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s resolve to ensure that every village in a Naxal-free Bastar joins the mainstream of development, every youth gets an opportunity to progress, and prosperity reaches every family. Bastar, which endured the pain of violence and fear for decades, will now emerge with a new identity defined by peace, prosperity, and development.
Also present on the occasion were Bastar Member of Parliament Shri Mahesh Kashyap, MLA Shri Chaitram Atami, member of the Chhattisgarh State Commission for Women Smt. Ojaswi Mandavi, and other public representatives.