Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during a press conference in Jagdalpur, outlined the Central Government’s vision for the rapid development of the Bastar region. Responding to questions about connectivity and infrastructure, Shah said Bastar had lagged behind the rest of the country in the development race for decades and assured that a comprehensive development roadmap is now being implemented. He emphasized that rural empowerment would remain the core focus of the government’s strategy. According to Shah, infrastructure projects, irrigation planning, railway expansion, and cooperative-based economic models are being developed simultaneously to transform the region. He also claimed that the government aims to increase the average income of every Bastar resident sixfold within the next five years through scientifically planned development initiatives. During the interaction, questions were also raised about employment opportunities and whether special economic packages would be introduced for villagers. Shah responded by highlighting the cooperative model, saying it itself acts as a “package” where people earn with dignity through collective effort. He referred to schemes involving livestock, forest produce, and rural participation as part of the larger economic framework for Bastar’s upliftment. The press conference comes amid the Centre’s intensified focus on development and security in Chhattisgarh’s tribal regions. Shah also reiterated his recent statement made on X, where he claimed that India is now moving towards becoming free from Naxalism, calling it a major achievement for the country.


