In a powerful address at the Bastar Pandum festival’s closing ceremony in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah renewed his call to Maoists to lay down arms and embrace development. Speaking to a large gathering of tribals, Shah emphasized that the fight against Naxalism is not personal but aimed at safeguarding tribal villages and securing their future.
Shah highlighted the transformative changes sweeping Bastar, once synonymous with violence. ‘Surrender your weapons and join the mainstream of development,’ he urged, promising attractive rehabilitation packages under the state scheme. Over 2,500 individuals have already quit violence, he noted, but warned of stern action against those planting IEDs, attacking villages, or destroying schools.
The minister painted a vivid picture of progress: schools shuttered for decades now buzzing with students, and a pledge that within five years, Bastar will emerge as Chhattisgarh’s most developed division. By December 27, every village will have electricity, mobile connectivity, hospitals, colleges, post offices, and essential services, he assured.
Government initiatives include procuring paddy from all tribal farmers, free rice, gas cylinders, and piped water. Post-Naxalism, adventure tourism, homestays, canopy walks, and glass bridges will boost opportunities. Shah announced major projects: a 118-acre industrial area, an irrigation and 120-MW power project on Indravati River, the ongoing Rs 3,500 crore Raoghat-Jagdalpur rail line, river-linking efforts, and vocational training for 90,000 youth.
From a curfew-like atmosphere to nights filled with smiling faces and vibrant cultural dances, Bastar is undergoing profound social change. Shah celebrated the region’s rich tribal heritage—communities like Abujh Maria, Dandami Maria, Muria, Gond, Halba, Bhatra, Drola, Dhuruva, Parja, and Gadaba, each with unique languages, dances like Sur Kasar, Rela, and Ghotul traditions.
Praising the Bastar Pandum festival, he announced top-performing teams from all 12 categories will perform at Rashtrapati Bhavan and dine with the President—a great honor. Shah also paid tribute to security forces who sacrificed lives and limbs in the anti-Naxal fight.