- A clarion call for development resonates in Jagdalpur, centered on the vision of ‘Empowered Women, Aspiring Youth’
On the occasion of the 26th glorious year of the formation of the state of Chhattisgarh, a district-level ‘Rajyotsav 2026’ (State Foundation Day celebration) was held in Jagdalpur, the headquarters of Bastar district, themed around ‘Empowered Women, Aspiring Youth.’ During the event, public representatives, administrative officials, and citizens reaffirmed their firm commitment to steering Bastar away from a period of struggle toward lasting prosperity. At the commencement of the ceremony, Jagdalpur MLA Shri Kiran Singh Deo recalled Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee—the architect of the state’s creation—noting that, out of respect for the simple nature and sentiments of the people of Chhattisgarh, Shri Vajpayee gifted the state to them without the need for any major struggle.
Highlighting the state’s development, MLA Shri Deo stated that efforts are being made to ensure the direct benefits of the government’s public welfare policies reach the last person in society. He noted that, in fulfillment of its promises, the government has implemented a system for paddy procurement at a rate of ₹3,100 per quintal. Furthermore, under the ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana,’ the government is providing financial support to over 7 million (70 lakh) women across the state by transferring ₹1,000 into their bank accounts every month. To nurture the future of the youth, modern study facilities—such as the ‘Nalanda Parisar’ in Jagdalpur, which operates 24 hours a day—will prove instrumental for those preparing for competitive examinations.
Additionally, initiatives such as the selection of Dhudmaras—a village with a significant Dhurwa tribal population—as a ‘heritage village,’ along with the development of home-stays and a tourism corridor, are opening new avenues for self-employment for the local youth. Addressing the ‘Rajyotsav’ (State Foundation Day) celebration, the Mayor of Jagdalpur Municipal Corporation, Mr. Sanjay Pandey, described ‘Nari Shakti’ (women’s power) and youth energy as the most robust foundation for building a ‘New Bastar.’ He noted that this region, which endured the scourge of Maoist violence for decades, is now entirely free from fear and is advancing toward new horizons of peace and development. Today, the daughters of Bastar are bringing honor to the national tricolor—from safeguarding the nation’s borders to excelling in sports arenas, innovation, startups, and the ‘Digital India’ landscape. The Mayor highlighted that initiatives like the ‘Bastar Olympics’ and ‘Bastar Pandum’ have provided a new identity to local talent, empowering the youth to evolve from job seekers into job creators, driven by their own skills and technical expertise.
Bastar Collector Mr. Akash Chhikara outlined the district’s development journey, noting that the region becoming free from Maoist influence—a milestone achieved through the supreme sacrifices of security forces and the cooperation of the public—has proven to be a historic turning point. Since then, the administration’s primary focus has shifted toward fostering peace and accelerating development. He provided an overview of the district’s progress.
Notably, under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana,’ a network of roads is being constructed in remote areas at a cost of approximately ₹8,700 crore. Work is progressing rapidly on the Geedam-Bhopalpatnam four-lane corridor and the Antagarh-Jagdalpur rail project, while regular flight services connecting the region to the state capital, Raipur, and Hyderabad are providing a new impetus to its growth. Furthermore, initiatives such as the ‘Bastar Mava Abhiyan’ and ‘Poona Narkom,’ the preservation of over 10,000 ‘Devgudi’ and ‘Matagudi’ (traditional sacred sites), and the development of infrastructure—including a medical college and a super-specialty hospital—are consistently improving the standard of living for the people of Bastar. Additionally, the Deurgaon and Matnar irrigation projects are set to provide a new direction for agriculture in the region. A pledge was reiterated to transform Bastar into a fully developed region by 2031, ensuring that every village is equipped with roads, electricity, clean drinking water, education, healthcare, and digital services.
During the event, the guests toured a development exhibition organized by various government departments and urged the public to take full advantage of the welfare schemes available to them. On this occasion, beneficiaries of government welfare programs were provided with assistance, including Ayushman cards and land ownership documents. Furthermore, certificates of appreciation were awarded to social workers, representatives of voluntary organizations, and other prominent citizens who have contributed to the facilities at the ‘padyatri’ (pilgrim) service centers—centers established to support devotees traveling to seek the blessings of Maa Danteshwari, the revered deity of Bastar. Additionally, school children who delivered outstanding performances during the cultural program, as well as traditional folk artists, were honored and encouraged with awards.
The event was attended by the Municipal Corporation Chairperson, Shri Khemsingh Dewangan, along with other local public representatives. Also present were Bastar Commissioner Shri Doman Singh, Inspector General (IG) Shri Badrinarayan Meena, District Panchayat CEO Shri Tanmay Khanna, various district administration officials and staff, and a large number of distinguished citizens.