Bastar to Become Most Developed Tribal Region in Five Years: Union Minister Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said today that Naxalism does not benefit anyone and that only peace can pave the way for development. Addressing the closing ceremony of the Bastar Olympics in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, he reiterated the government’s resolve to end Naxalism by March 31, 2026. He said the Centre has decided to transform Chhattisgarh’s Bastar division into the most developed tribal region in the country over the next five years. Mr Shah said Naxalism had stalled development in the region, but a new chapter of progress would begin once the menace is eliminated. He appealed to those still associated with the outlawed Maoists to lay down their arms and join the mainstream of society. Highlighting the changing face of Bastar, Mr Shah said fear has been replaced by hope, school