- By JE News Desk
- Thu, 15 May 2025 07:58 PM (IST)
- Source:JNM
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today visited the Naxal-affected districts of Bijapur and Dantewada in the Bastar region, following the landmark anti-Naxal operation recently conducted in the Karregutta hills. At the CRPF camp in Galgam, the Chief Minister met with security personnel to boost their morale. Addressing the jawans, he affirmed that the fight ahead will not be waged by weapons and courage alone, but also through education, employment, and inclusive development.
The Karregutta operation led to the elimination of 31 Naxals, including senior cadres. Over 450 IEDs were defused and a large cache of sophisticated weapons recovered. Describing the operation as more than a military success, the Chief Minister called it a critical opportunity to pave the way for sustainable peace and prosperity in the region.
This visit formed part of the state government’s Sushasan Tyohaar (Good Governance Festival), a flagship initiative aimed at taking governance to the grassroots and closely tracking the implementation of public welfare schemes. During his stop at Gram Panchayat Muler, CM Sai reviewed key developmental projects. Locals noted that the Chief Minister often arrives without prior notice, asking villagers directly: “Are you getting your ration? Is the school running? Have you received your housing benefits? Do you have your Ayushman card?” When the answer is “no”, immediate action is taken on the ground.
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In Muler village, home to just 474 people, the Chief Minister inspected a newly built primary school, reviewed 22 under-construction houses under the PM Awas Yojana, and checked on a community toilet project worth Rs 4.5 lakh. Six self-help groups (SHGs) have been formed in the village. Among them, the Lakshmi SHG has already generated a profit of Rs 40,000. CM Sai lauded their efforts, calling them a model for grassroots self-reliance.
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The CM also visited the Central Library in Bijapur, now transformed into a New Age Learning Center. Since January 22, 2025, computer training classes have been held here, currently serving 30 students. Career guidance sessions launched on April 1, 2025, have attracted 60 participants so far. Equipped with modern learning tools such as VR headsets, daylight scopes, and Alexa devices, the center is providing an immersive and interactive educational experience.
From Holding Guns to Flying Drones
At a rehabilitation centre housed in the old Navodaya Vidyalaya hostel, the Chief Minister met with 90 surrendered Naxals. These individuals are receiving training for dignified livelihoods in areas such as drone operation, poultry farming, and taxi driving. With a total capacity of 150, the center also ensures documentation support, including Aadhaar, ration cards, and voter IDs.
CM Sai emphasised that these rehabilitated individuals will soon be integrated into district-level development initiatives, offering them respect, dignity, and meaningful roles in society.