sack: President Draupadi Murmu on Saturday said the government’s decisive action against Maoists has ended the atmosphere of fear and mistrust in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region and ushered in a new dawn of development.
Bastar, Feb 07 (ANI): President Draupadi Murmu delivered a speech at the inauguration of Bastar Pandum 2026 at Jagdalpur in Bastar on Saturday. (Office of the President’s Press Secretary/ANI photo) (ANI)”Bastar’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage have always attracted people, but unfortunately the region has suffered over the years due to the Maoist menace,” Murmu said at the inauguration of the three-day divisional-level Bastar Pandum festival in Jagdalpur, the district headquarters of Bastar, adding that it has hit the youth, Dalits and tribals the most.
The President said people associated with Maoist activities are now avoiding violence and opting for peace in the region. “The government of India’s decisive action against the Maoists has ended the climate of fear and mistrust,” he added.
Highlighting the large number of Maoists who have surrendered, he said the government is ensuring that those who return to the mainstream can lead a normal and dignified life.
He also mentioned the Chhattisgarh government’s ‘Niyad Nelanar’ initiative and said villages are getting access to electricity, roads and drinking water, while schools that have been closed for years are being reopened, describing it as a “very heartening picture”.
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“With the efforts of the government and the cooperation of the people, a new dawn of development is dawning in Bastar,” he said, urging the people to move forward with hard work and dedication and to have faith in the democratic system.
Murmu said backward villages are seeing development through central schemes like PM Janman and Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Yojana and Eklavya model residential schools have been launched in tribal areas to promote education among tribal children.
Murmu referred to her own journey and said that “If a girl from a small village in Odisha can become the President… you have more courage and strength. The government is dedicated to you.”
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“Chhattisgarh used to be considered backward, but that’s not the case. Look at its glory. Chhattisgarh is a state full of glory and rich culture. It’s because of the tribals of Chhattisgarh. Their culture is priceless. It’s ancient, yet so beautiful. Those who haven’t seen this Samata festival, should see these parallels and learn from Murmum festival.”
He said that Bastar has tourism potential due to its enthusiastic people, ancient culture, natural beauty, waterfalls and caves and with improved facilities the place will attract more visitors. Stating that homestays are popular worldwide, he said the state government has taken steps in that direction.
Murmu congratulated social worker Budhri Tati, Dr. Ramchandra Godbole and his wife Sunita for their contribution to healthcare in remote tribal areas for being selected for the Padma Award 2026 from Chhattisgarh.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said Bastar was once known for Maoism and fear, but the situation is changing fast. Reiterating the commitment to achieve the March 31, 2026 target set by the Modi government to eradicate Maoism, he said, “Areas once marked by gunfire now witness the sound of school bells.
Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
