Maoism – Chhattisgarh Sees Shift From Conflict to Growth Phase
Maoism – Chhattisgarh is witnessing a significant change in its long battle against Maoist insurgency, Governor Ramen Deka told the state Assembly on Monday, describing a gradual move from years of violence toward a phase focused on stability and development.
Address to Assembly Highlights Changing Security Landscape
Speaking during the Budget session, which also marks 25 years since Chhattisgarh was carved out as a separate state, the Governor said consistent security measures combined with welfare-driven governance had reduced the operational space of Maoist groups in several core areas.
He noted that areas once overshadowed by fear are now experiencing visible administrative outreach. According to Deka, the state government’s coordinated efforts have brought a sense of normalcy to districts that had struggled with unrest for decades.
Welfare Outreach Builds Trust in Interior Villages
A key element of this transition, the Governor said, has been the Niyad Nella Nar initiative, translated as “Your Good Village.” The programme brings together 17 government departments to deliver 25 welfare schemes and 18 essential public services directly to residents in remote settlements.
The scheme has focused particularly on tribal communities living in former Maoist strongholds. By ensuring access to health services, education support, food security programmes and other benefits at the village level, the administration aims to strengthen public trust and reduce the influence of extremist networks.
Officials believe that consistent welfare delivery has helped bridge the gap between local communities and the state machinery, particularly in forested and difficult-to-access regions.
Security Gains and Rehabilitation Efforts
Providing figures on recent security developments, Deka said that in the past two years, 532 Maoists had been neutralised in operations. During the same period, 2,704 individuals surrendered and opted to rejoin mainstream society, while 2,004 were arrested.
The Governor described the surrender and rehabilitation framework as more humane and reform-oriented. Many young recruits who were once drawn into extremist ranks, he said, are now choosing to pursue education, employment and lawful livelihoods. The administration views this shift as an important indicator of changing ground realities.
Focus on Bastar’s Infrastructure and Cultural Identity
The Bastar region, long considered the centre of Left-wing extremism in Chhattisgarh, is also seeing renewed focus on infrastructure development. Roads, communication networks and public facilities are being expanded to integrate remote districts more closely with the rest of the state.
In a move aimed at reshaping Bastar’s image, Deka announced that Chhattisgarh will host the first Khelo India Tribal Games. The event is expected to highlight indigenous sports and culture, drawing national attention to the region’s heritage rather than its history of violence.
Referring to Bastar’s natural beauty, the Governor said the region should be recognised for landmarks such as the Chitrakoot waterfalls rather than past conflict. The statement underlined a broader attempt to reposition the area in the national narrative.
Vision 2047 and Economic Push
Beyond security matters, the Governor outlined the Anjor Vision document, which sets a target of transforming Chhattisgarh into a fully developed state by 2047. The roadmap includes agricultural support, women’s welfare and investments in emerging industries.
He cited record procurement of 141.04 lakh metric tonnes of paddy from more than 25 lakh farmers, reflecting the state’s continued emphasis on agriculture. Under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, over ₹15,596 crore has been distributed to 69 lakh women beneficiaries, providing direct financial assistance to households.
The state has also attracted investment proposals worth ₹7.83 lakh crore in sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence and information technology, signalling efforts to diversify its economic base beyond traditional industries.
Call for Inclusive Development
Concluding his address, Governor Deka urged lawmakers to maintain focus on inclusive growth and ensure that development initiatives reach even the most remote forest villages. He stressed that sustained cooperation between security forces, civil administration and elected representatives would be essential to preserving recent gains.
As Chhattisgarh marks its silver jubilee year, the government projects a future defined less by insurgency and more by infrastructure, welfare expansion and economic opportunity.