Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the closing ceremony of Bastar Olympics in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh

India is on the threshold of a historic transformation as Naxalism is set to be completely eliminated from the country, including the Bastar region, by 31st March 2026. This decisive commitment marks a turning point in India’s long-standing fight against Left Wing Extremism and opens the door to peace, stability, and inclusive development in some of the nation’s most sensitive regions.

A Vision of a Developed and Peaceful Bastar
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India has resolved not only to eradicate Naxalism but also to transform Bastar into the most developed tribal division in the country within the next five years. The Bastar division, comprising seven districts—Kanker, Kondagaon, Bastar, Sukma, Bijapur, Narayanpur, and Dantewada—is envisioned as a model of holistic tribal development by 2030.

Government Commitment to Infrastructure and Welfare
The Central Government and the Chhattisgarh Government are working shoulder to shoulder to ensure that every household in Bastar has access to basic amenities such as housing, electricity, toilets, clean drinking water through tap connections, cooking gas, and food security. Free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh, improved road connectivity, banking facilities within a five-kilometer radius, and a strong network of primary and community health centers are central to this development roadmap.

Economic Growth Through Local Strengths
Special emphasis is being placed on strengthening Bastar’s economy by promoting forest produce-based cooperative units, dairy development, and new industries. All seven districts are being developed as leading milk-producing tribal districts to enhance rural incomes. Alongside this, initiatives for higher education, world-class hospitals, advanced sports infrastructure, and targeted nutrition programs are being rolled out to uplift the region comprehensively.

Rehabilitation and Mainstream Integration of Former Naxalites
The government has reaffirmed that its objective is not confrontation but transformation. Attractive rehabilitation schemes are being introduced for surrendered Naxalites and victims of Naxal violence, enabling them to rebuild their lives with dignity. Over 2,000 former Naxalite youths have already surrendered, reflecting growing trust in the government’s development-oriented approach.

Bastar Olympics: A Symbol of Change and Hope
The Bastar Olympics have emerged as a powerful symbol of peace and renewal. In the Bastar Olympics 2025, over 3,91,000 players participated—nearly two and a half times more than the previous year. Remarkably, women’s participation surged almost threefold, surpassing that of men. Among the participants were more than 700 surrendered Naxalites who chose sports, unity, and hope over violence and fear.

From Red Terror to National Pride
Bastar’s transformation is visible on the ground. Areas once echoing with gunfire now resonate with school bells and sporting cheers. Where slogans of “Lal Salaam” once dominated, chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” now reflect renewed national pride. Roads, railways, and highways are replacing isolation with opportunity, signaling Bastar’s shift from fear to a future filled with promise.

Sports as a Gateway to Global Recognition
Talent scouts from the Sports Authority of India have identified promising athletes from the Bastar Olympics, paving the way for their participation in upcoming Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games. Recognizing this enthusiasm, Chhattisgarh has also been selected to host the Khelo India Tribal Games, further strengthening the role of sports in social integration and youth empowerment.

Preserving Culture While Building the Future
Bastar’s rich tribal culture—its art, music, dance, festivals, and traditional games—is being actively preserved and promoted. Modern recording studios have been established to safeguard traditional songs, while festivals once suppressed under the shadow of Naxalism are being revived, ensuring that development goes hand in hand with cultural pride.

A Call for Peace and Participation
The Union Home Minister has appealed to tribal leaders, community heads, and social workers to guide those still holding weapons toward the mainstream. The message is clear: peace is the only path to development. By laying down arms and embracing rehabilitation, individuals can secure a better future for themselves, their families, and Bastar as a whole.