“With determination, compassion, and an inclusive policy, we have commenced a new chapter of transformation in Bastar. The self-confidence of youth in Bastar is our greatest inspiration, and together we shall build a new Bastar. This is your first visit to the capital city of Raipur — I extend a warm welcome to all of you, and may this journey remain pleasant and memorable”, said Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, while addressing a group of 96 young men and women from the remote and Naxal-affected panchayats of Niyad Nellanar in Bijapur district during an interaction at his residence today.
Chief Minister stated that through initiatives like ‘Niyad Nellanar’, the State Government is opening new avenues of peace and development in Naxal-affected areas. He emphasised that the youth are the future of Chhattisgarh, and their participation is vital in taking Bastar and the entire State forward. Shri Sai said that the ‘Niyad Nellanar’ scheme is not only transforming the villages but also providing youth with self-employment opportunities.
Chief Minister Shri Sai assured the youth that his government is dedicated to establishing peace in their region and highlighted that Union Minister Shri Amit Shah has resolved to eradicate Naxalism from its roots by March 2026. He pointed out that the Maoists do not want development in the region, but the government is committed to overcoming every obstacle in the path of progress. The morale of Bastar, he said, provides the energy to eliminate the evil of Naxalism completely.
Shri Sai described the natural splendour of the region, with its dense forests, captivating waterfalls, and towering hills. The fertile lands support good agriculture, and the government is working to ensure irrigation facilities reach the farmers to enhance prosperity. He urged the youth to promote agriculture and encouraged students to dedicate themselves to acquiring quality education. Chief Minister also underlined the importance of the youth’s cooperation in the State’s progress.
He spoke of events such as the ‘Bastar Olympics’ and ‘Bastar Pandum’, describing them as expressions of Bastar’s soul. The enthusiastic participation of thousands of youth, women, and children in these events has conveyed to the world that Bastar is now moving towards a new era. The preservation of Bastar’s art, culture, and heritage, he said, will continue to be a collective endeavour. The people of Bastar, he noted, have demonstrated their desire for peace and development, not violence.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the land of Bastar has always been a symbol of valour, patience, and pride, and now, together, they will advance it on the path of development and prosperity. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to offering new opportunities to every youth through various schemes, skill development programmes, sports, and education.
Shri Sai called upon the youth to join the mainstream and become agents of change in society, contributing to the creation of a strong, secure, and prosperous Bastar.
Youth Share Their Views with the Chief Minister, Say — “We Will Become Agents of Change for Bastar”
The youth who travelled from the remote villages of Bijapur district to the capital engaged in an open dialogue with Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai. They not only shared their experiences but also spoke of their dreams and aspirations. The youth expressed their desire to improve their lives by pursuing education, sports, skills, and service. They voiced their aspirations to become participants in the transformation of Bastar.
They acknowledged that the ‘Niyad Nellanar’ scheme has given them a new identity and direction.
On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma, Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, Chief Secretary Shri Amitabh Jain, Director General of Police Shri Arun Dev Gautam, and other senior officials were present.
