As Chhattisgarh prepares to celebrate its 25th Foundation Day on November 1, the state is entering a transformative phase that reflects its evolution from a Naxal-affected region to a symbol of sustainable development and tribal empowerment. Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi is set to attend the milestone event, underlining the state’s growing national importance.
Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai and his administration have set a bold vision for the future, anchored in green growth, inclusive development, and infrastructure expansion, particularly in forest-rich and tribal regions like Bastar.
From Atal’s Dream to Today’s Reality: Chhattisgarh’s Journey of Transformation
Speaking about the progress since Chhattisgarh’s formation by former Prime Minister Mr. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Forest and Climate Change Minister Mr. Kedar Kashyap emphasized the significant strides the state has made.
“We were once known for backwardness. Today, Chhattisgarh stands tall in sectors like health, roads, education, and agriculture,” he said.
Mr. Kashyap credited the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi for accelerating the state’s development and restoring confidence in historically underserved areas.
A Natural Giant: Chhattisgarh’s Green Legacy and Its Future
Chhattisgarh boasts the third-largest forest cover in India, with approximately 44.10% of its geographical area under forest, covering around 60,000 square kilometers. The state is focusing on balancing resource extraction with environmental conservation.
“We extract minerals responsibly and ensure reforestation. Chhattisgarh is India’s oxygen zone, and we are committed to keeping it green,” Mr. Kashyap said.
He assured that environmental concerns are being addressed through large-scale tree plantations and sustainable forestry policies.
Bastar Rising: From Fear to Development
Calling Bastar his home, Mr. Kashyap emotionally recounted the region’s journey from neglect and fear to trust and progress. Today, Bastar is witnessing rapid development in roads, education, internet connectivity, and healthcare infrastructure.
“Where there were no roads, now highways exist. Where people feared the government, now government services are reaching every household,” he said.
Medical colleges in Jagdalpur and Kanker are just the beginning. New projects are ensuring that the tribal youth of Bastar have access to quality education and employment opportunities.
The Fight Against Naxalism: A Development-Driven Approach
While avoiding a fixed deadline, Mr. Kashyap said the state is focused on development-led conflict resolution in Naxal-affected areas.
“We are not just making announcements. We are reaching the remotest villages, expanding governance, and transforming fear into faith,” he added.
With public infrastructure, education, and healthcare now visible in once-isolated regions, the morale of the people has shifted significantly.
Tribal Empowerment Beyond Symbolism
Addressing criticism about not celebrating World Tribal Day this year, Mr. Kashyap firmly responded:
“Empowerment is not about symbolism. It’s about action. We are working every day for the welfare of tribal communities.”
He pointed out that a tribal Vice President and multiple tribal Chief Ministers are clear outcomes of BJP’s commitment to tribal welfare, in contrast to past political exploitation.
Vision 2031: Towards a Rs. 10 Lakh Crore GSDP
Looking ahead, Mr. Kashyap laid out the state’s ambitious roadmap. Aligned with the goals set by Prime Minister Mr. Modi and Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah, the state aims to grow its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) to Rs. 10 lakh crore by 2047.
Key focus areas include:
- Expanding education and health infrastructure
- Boosting service sector employment
- Maximizing forest produce and tribal enterprise
- Creating more green jobs
- Ensuring tribal youth and women find representation in all fields
“Chhattisgarh at 25 is standing tall — ready to lead the way in sustainable development, unity, and inclusive growth,” he concluded.
