India

Chhattisgarh Transforms from Maoist Stronghold to Development Hub, Says PM Modi

By Ritesh Mishra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on the state’s foundation day, noting that areas once part of the Maoist “red corridor” are now emerging as centres of peace, trust and development after the decisive end of Left Wing Extremism in the state. Modi said the state, which 25 years ago had only a single daily flight between Delhi and Raipur, now operates four modern airports. Railway projects worth more than ₹51,000 crore are being implemented, and Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat services have been introduced. Road development has cut travel time between Raipur and Bilaspur by almost half, and upcoming expressways connecting major economic hubs are expected to boost industry and employment.

The Prime Minister highlighted social welfare achievements: 7.3 million families receive free grains through the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana and state schemes; 2.2 million houses have been built in rural and urban areas; over 4.1 million rural families have tap water connections; and 4 million families have LPG connections. The state’s paddy procurement system is providing better prices to more than 2.5 million farmers, strengthening the rural economy.

Under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, more than 6.8 million women receive ₹1,000 every month, supporting their economic participation. Modi noted that Nava Raipur is emerging as a modern city, with opportunities in pharmaceuticals, textiles, IT, power, aluminium and steel. He also said Bastar is moving toward peace and development, citing initiatives such as Niyad Nellanar, livelihood development schemes and Mukhyamantri Swasth Bastar to extend basic facilities to the region.

"Bastar today is moving forward on a new path of peace, good governance and prosperity," Modi said.