New Delhi: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Tuesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and presented a “forward-looking vision” for the next phase of development in Bastar, among the areas worst affected by Naxal violence and now moving towards peace.
According to a statement issued by the state government, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the restoration of peace in the region after the decline of Naxalism and lauded the continued support and leadership of the Prime Minister for the same.
By highlighting the region’s potential, the vision document outlines a transformative roadmap designed to accelerate economic progress and improve quality of life. In addition, the Prime Minister invited the Prime Minister to visit Bastar after the monsoon season, the statement said.
The proposed visit is expected to be a major milestone, with plans to lay the foundation stones for several major projects and inaugurate key initiatives in his presence, signaling the beginning of a new era of growth in the region.
The Prime Minister said that the Bastar development blueprint is built on the core strategy of “saturation, connectivity, facilitation, empowerment and participation” and this approach aims to ensure rapid and comprehensive expansion of basic infrastructure and essential services across the region.
The main focus is on integrating previously remote and isolated villages into the mainstream through a robust road network, besides completing the pending works under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana by 2027.
It includes the construction of 228 new roads and 267 bridges. In addition, proposals for 61 new projects have been submitted for special central assistance to speed up the development process, the state government statement said.
Sai stressed that Naxalism has been eradicated from all parts of Chhattisgarh, including Bastar, paving the way for lasting peace in the region.
He highlighted major strides in education and healthcare, including the development of new education cities, super-specialty hospitals, and medical colleges. The Prime Minister noted that connectivity is also being significantly enhanced through major infrastructure projects like construction of barrage on Indravati river, expansion of railway networks and development of airport facilities.
According to him, this comprehensive scheme aims to usher in a new phase of growth, generate employment opportunities and improve access to basic services across Bastar.
In his development vision document, the Prime Minister emphasized that the aspiration to transform Bastar into a hub for peace and progress – first envisioned by the Prime Minister nearly a decade ago – is now taking concrete shape on the ground.
He said that with the end of Naxalism, the previously fearful atmosphere was replaced by optimism and renewed confidence among the people.
Sai expressed confidence that, under the continued guidance of the Prime Minister, Bastar will move forward with greater momentum, opening up new opportunities and inspiring hope across the region, the statement said.
