To eradicate cancer of naxalism, it is necessary to strike at its root: Sai
Raipur, January 13
Naxalism is like cancer, and to eliminate cancer, it is crucial to attack its root. Maoists had clung to certain areas of Bastar like leeches, exploiting and intimidating the local population. These areas were their safest havens. We decided to attack the Maoists in their dens. With the indomitable courage of our security forces, we confronted and defeated them. Over the past year, our forces have neutralized more than 230 Maoists in various encounters. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai stated this while addressing a ceremony on the inauguration and foundation-laying of development projects at Sukma district’s mini-stadium.
The Chief Minister expressed his reverence for the land where Lord Shri Ram once set foot, acknowledging it as sacred. He remarked on the devastating impact of Maoist violence on the Bastar region and Sukma district, which severely hindered development. Over the past year, the government has undertaken significant decisions and rapid implementation for Sukma’s progress. In this series, ₹205 crore worth of 137 projects were inaugurated and initiated today, including 82 projects worth ₹39 crore and 55 projects worth ₹166 crore. A major project includes a ₹83 crore water supply scheme in Sukma municipality, along with a ₹14 crore road construction project from Kerlapal to Pongabhiji. Additionally, an ₹11 crore sports complex has been proposed to enhance sports infrastructure in Sukma.
The Chief Minister highlighted the expansion of camps and security networks in Maoist-affected areas, which has confined the Maoists to limited regions. Frustrated, they are resorting to cowardly actions. Referring to an IED blast targeting security personnel, he paid homage to the martyrs and vowed to eradicate Maoism completely. The government has also initiated the “Niyad Nella Naar” plan to ensure basic facilities for villages within a 5-km radius of the camps.
He emphasized how Maoists kept rural areas in terror, depriving them of basic amenities like electricity and television. Today, villages like Puvarti, once neglected, are lit by solar power, and residents witnessed television for the first time in 78 years. Similarly, electricity has reached Salatong village after 78 years, bringing development and hope for children’s education. Improved transportation through the “Hakkum Mail” initiative has eased access to health centers and other facilities. The government has issued Aadhaar, Ayushman, and Kisan Credit Cards for the first time in these regions.
Under the “Mahitri Vandan Yojana,” ₹1,000 is being transferred monthly to 52,220 mothers in Sukma district. Over 6,000 beneficiaries have received installments for the Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme. The government also increased the tendu leaf collection rate from ₹4,000 to ₹5,500 per standard bag, distributing ₹77 crore to over 63,000 beneficiaries. Highlighting cultural development, he noted the participation of 1.65 lakh individuals in the Bastar Olympics, including many from Sukma, which was praised by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in his “Mann Ki Baat” program.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s strict stand against corruption, vowing action against all corrupt individuals. He also released the coffee table book “Mawa Sukma – Badalta Sukma.”
At the event, the Chief Minister blessed two former Maoists who began their married lives under the “Chief Minister Kanya Vivah Yojana” and “Naxal Rehabilitation Scheme.” Two MoUs were also signed: one for skill development with ITC under the Livelihood College and another for waste management with Bastar district’s MRF Waste Management. Women’s self-help group products will be marketed under the “Aakansha” brand.
During his visit, the Chief Minister received a painting from differently-abled Rahul Padami under the education scheme and awarded certificates of appreciation to differently-abled individuals Raghunath Nag and Sodi Bide. He also honored Silky Netam and Gulshan Mudiyami, selected for MBBS studies, and Payal Kawasi, who won first place in javelin throw at the Bastar Olympics. Appointments were provided to Naxal-affected family dependents under the Naxal Rehabilitation Policy.
Forest Minister Shri Kedar stated that the government is striving to ensure the benefits of schemes reach the last person. Bastar MP Shri Mahesh Kashyap also addressed the gathering.
The event witnessed the presence of State Women’s Commission member Ms. Deepika Sori, dignitaries like Shri Dhaniram Barse, Bastar Commissioner Shri Doman Singh, Bastar IG Shri Sundarraj P., and a large number of people.