Chhattisgarh CM Sai reviews Bastar development plans, calls for fast-track implementation of welfare schemes

RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai chaired a high-level divisional review meeting on Wednesday at collectorate in Bastar, emphasizing the swift and effective implementation of public welfare schemes in the Maoist-affected districts in Bastar division.

CM was on a two-day visit to Bastar and on the second day, he chaired a meeting making it clear that eliminating Naxalism from its roots is a top priority for the government. “The government is working with full strength and commitment toward the complete eradication of Naxalism. With the support of the Central Government, we aim to achieve this goal by March 31, 2026,” he said.

A New Vision for Bastar

Describing Bastar as no longer a symbol of backwardness, CM Sai said it is emerging as a gateway to the aspirations of a new India. “Our goal is to connect every village and every family in Bastar with the mainstream of development,” he stated.

“We want to instil not just skills, but self-respect in the youth of Bastar,” CM Sai asserted. “Our new mantra is — Light in every home, employment in every hand, and trust in every heart. This will be the new identity of Bastar.”

The CM said Bastar’s youth are its biggest asset and emphasized providing employment through focused industrial development. The government is prioritizing SCs, women, and local youth under a revamped industrial policy aimed at inclusive growth and local empowerment.

Boost to Connectivity, Health & Documentation

The CM stressed urgent improvements in mobile network infrastructure, especially in interior areas where Aadhaar, banking, and ration services often face disruptions. Plans to install mobile towers in these regions were discussed.

He also directed officials to ensure availability of medicines and proper healthcare facilities at health sub-centers and CSCs, particularly in view of seasonal illnesses during the upcoming summer and monsoon.

With the new academic session beginning soon, he instructed officials to simplify and expedite the caste certificate issuance process so that schoolchildren face no delays.

Infrastructure, Transport & Industry

Chief Minister announced that pending infrastructure projects will be fast-tracked, and regular flights from Jagdalpur Airport are in the pipeline. He also called for improvements to national highways and rural transport, including regular bus services in interior villages to ensure safe and easy travel.

The meeting highlighted notable progress in electrification. 95.89% of households in Bastar division now have power, with Kanker district fully electrified and Bastar and Kondagaon exceeding 99%. Remaining districts are expected to reach full electrification by December 2025.

CM Sai directed that no eligible beneficiary should be left without housing, and all pending constructions be completed before December 2025. A centralized procurement strategy via panchayats was also suggested for timely availability of construction materials.

Unleashing Bastar’s Tourism Potential

Chief Minister called for transforming Bastar into an international tourism hotspot, beginning with global promotion of the iconic 75-day-long Bastar Dussehra festival. Instructions have been issued to prepare strategically for upcoming tourist seasons, develop eco-tourism circuits, and train local youth as certified guides.

Enhancing homestay experiences, especially for international tourists, was emphasized, with homestays being developed as a source of income for tribal communities.

Plans also include using private agencies to improve Google mapping for better visibility of tourist sites, while the Chhattisgarh Tourism Policy 2025 is expected to be released soon. Tourism infrastructure will be developed under public-private partnerships.

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma praised the CM’s leadership, noting that “Bastar is now writing a new story of progress,” and emphasized completing all construction work before the monsoon.

Bastar Divisional Commissioner Doman Singh presented updates on development projects, while CM Sai instructed officials to launch a special drive to achieve 100% Aadhaar and Ayushman enrolment.