Deadline to End Naxalism by March 31, 2026: Amit Shah Speaks at Bastar Olympics Closing Ceremony

Raipur

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday reiterated that the country will be Naxal-free by 31 March 2026. Shah made the statement during the closing ceremony of the divisional-level Bastar Olympics in Chhattisgarh.

Addressing the gathering, the Home Minister asserted that the Central government is fully committed to the development of the Bastar region, which has long been hampered by insurgency.

“Bastar’s culture is the most beautiful in the world, and we will make it the most developed tribal division in the country over the next five years,” Shah stated. “The people of Bastar will get electricity in every home, and the work to provide piped water to every household will be completed.”

Earlier in the day, Shah launched the ‘Har Ghar Roshan’ (Light Up Every Home) project.

Shah strongly criticised the Naxal presence, stating that extremists have been stalling the region’s development. He added that the government has introduced several schemes for surrendered Naxals.

Elaborating on the development roadmap, Shah said that every citizen will have access to essential facilities. He announced that banking services would be available within a 5 km radius of every location.

Highlighting plans to boost the local economy, Shah said processing units for forest produce will be set up. Bastar’s districts will focus on milk production through dairy schemes, and new industries, hospitals, and infrastructure will be established across the region.

CM echoes Shah’s resolve

Speaking from the same stage, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said Naxalism is on its “last breath” and will soon be completely eradicated.

“Home Minister Amit Shah’s deadline of 31 March 2026 to eliminate Naxalism is a moment of joy for Chhattisgarh,” Sai said.