Chhattisgarh Governor Highlights Progress in Anti-Naxal Operations and Development at Assembly Budget Session

Raipur:
Governor Ramen Deka addressed the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on Monday, marking the commencement of the budget session. His speech focused on the state’s significant progress in combating Naxalism and accelerating development. He asserted that Naxalism is “taking its last breath” in Chhattisgarh, attributing this to the government’s strategic initiatives, the high morale of security forces, and the public’s unwavering support.

Success in Anti-Naxal Operations

The Governor presented notable achievements in anti-Naxal operations, reporting that in the past 14 months:

• Over 300 Naxalites have been killed
• 972 have surrendered
• 1,183 have been arrested

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rehabilitating surrendered Naxalites and supporting affected families, announcing the approval of 15,000 Pradhan Mantri Awas (housing units) for their resettlement.

Deka highlighted the restoration of normalcy in previously Naxal-affected areas. He cited the first-time flag hoisting and three-tier panchayat elections in 26 villages, including Pentachimli, Keralapenda, Duled, Sunnam Guda, and Puvarti (Sukma district), where voting took place for the first time.

Additionally, he mentioned key milestones in healthcare development:

• Reopening of the Potali Health Center (Dantewada) after 19 years
• Chintagufa Health Center (Sukma) receiving the National Quality Assurance Standard Certificate

Development Initiatives in Bastar

The Governor underscored the government’s emphasis on Bastar’s development, a region historically affected by Naxalism. Key initiatives include:

• “Niyad Nella Nar” scheme, providing access to 52 beneficiary-oriented schemes and 31 community facilities in villages near security camps.
• PM Janman Yojana, benefiting nearly 60,000 particularly vulnerable tribal families and facilitating the construction of over 2,400 km of roads.
• Dharti Aba Tribal Village Utkarsh Abhiyan, benefiting 6,600+ Scheduled Tribe villages.

Deka emphasized the growing sense of peace in Bastar, citing the success of the Bastar Olympics, which saw participation from 165,000 people, including those affected by Maoist violence, surrendered Maoists, and individuals with disabilities. He highlighted the role of sports in fostering unity and enthusiasm.

Governance, Welfare, and Infrastructure Development

Beyond security and development, the Governor outlined broader governance and welfare initiatives:

Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare

• Record paddy procurement and direct fund transfers to farmers.
• Initiatives to modernize agriculture and promote organic farming.

Women’s Empowerment & Youth Development

• “Mahtari Vandan Yojana”, providing financial support to women.
• Promotion of self-help groups for economic independence.
• Job creation initiatives, particularly for youth.
• Development of IT infrastructure, including a new data center and pharmaceutical hub.

Infrastructure Growth

• Expansion of railway networks and highway improvements.
• Enhanced air connectivity to boost trade and tourism.
• Utilization of mineral resources through a new industrial policy, promoting sustainable development and investment opportunities.

Healthcare and Social Welfare

• Ayushman Bharat scheme, ensuring health security for all citizens.
• Jal Jeevan Mission, improving access to clean drinking water.
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, advancing affordable housing.
• Education, sanitation, and skill development programs to uplift marginalized communities.

Vision for a Developed Chhattisgarh

Governor Deka reaffirmed the government’s commitment to good governance, transparency, and inclusive development. He called for collective efforts to build a “developed Chhattisgarh” while preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage.

He concluded his address by emphasizing the state’s progress and the administration’s resolve to ensure peace, prosperity, and development for all citizens.