Raipur, November 1, 2025: On the occasion of Chhattisgarh’s 25th state formation anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the state’s remarkable transformation over the past quarter-century, asserting that the day is not far when every part of Chhattisgarh—and India—will be entirely free from Maoist violence. Speaking at the Chhattisgarh Rajat Mahotsav in Nava Raipur, Modi celebrated the state’s journey from being a region plagued by extremism to a symbol of peace, prosperity, and development.

The Prime Minister began by recalling the decades-long hardships faced by the people of Chhattisgarh due to Maoist activity. “For fifty years, the people here suffered unbearable pain because of Maoism. Those who flaunt the Constitution while shedding crocodile tears in the name of social justice have committed grave injustice to you for their vested interests,” Modi said. He highlighted how the Maoist ideology had deprived tribal areas of basic facilities like roads, schools, and hospitals, often targeting teachers and doctors, leaving villages without access to essential services.

Modi credited the government’s concerted efforts since 2014 for the dramatic reduction in Maoist-affected districts. “Eleven years ago, 125 districts across India were affected by Maoist extremism. Today, only three remain. I assure you, the day is not far when every corner of Chhattisgarh and India will be free from Maoist terror,” he declared.

The Prime Minister cited recent surrenders by Maoist operatives as a clear indicator of progress. In Kanker, over twenty Maoists laid down their arms recently, and earlier in October, more than 200 Maoists surrendered in Bastar. Modi emphasized that these individuals had accepted the Indian Constitution and chosen peace over violence, underscoring the impact of government policies and security operations in curbing extremism.

During his address, Modi drew attention to specific developmental milestones achieved in previously Maoist-dominated regions. “Electricity has reached Chikapalli village of Bijapur for the first time in seventy years, and a school has opened in Rekawaya village of Abujhmad since Independence. Development work is in full swing at Puvarti, once a terror hub, and today the tricolour flies proudly where the red flag once stood,” he said. These examples highlighted how infrastructure, education, and public services are reaching the most remote areas, fostering security, stability, and economic growth.

The Prime Minister also inaugurated the new Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly building in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar and unveiled a statue of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He described the new assembly as more than a space for legislative work, calling it a center for shaping the state’s destiny. Modi urged lawmakers to focus on public service, development, and reforms, ensuring that governance eases citizens’ lives while eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic interference. “The mantra of good governance should be ‘Nagrik Devo Bhava’—the citizen is God,” he said.

Modi stressed that Chhattisgarh’s transformation is a testament to the hard work of its people and the vision of successive governments led by the BJP. He reiterated that development and peace have now reached regions once dominated by Maoists, creating a foundation for further progress and prosperity.

The Prime Minister’s address also linked the state’s progress to national priorities. He stated that Chhattisgarh’s 25th foundation anniversary marks a larger milestone in India’s development journey, pointing towards the goal of a developed nation by 2047, the centenary of India’s independence.

Earlier in the day, Modi inaugurated the Shanti Shikhar centre for spiritual learning and meditation of the Brahma Kumaris in Nava Raipur, highlighting the importance of spiritual institutions in fostering social harmony and resilience. He said India has consistently acted as a first responder during global crises, reinforcing the country’s role as a reliable partner on the world stage. “Whenever a crisis arises anywhere in the world, whenever a disaster strikes, India steps forward as a reliable partner to provide assistance. India is always the first responder,” he said.

Modi also engaged with children treated for congenital heart diseases at the Gift of Life ceremony held at Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital, part of the Dil Ki Baat initiative. He underscored the importance of healthcare accessibility and praised the resilience of these young patients. Former India cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar was also present at the event.

Throughout his speech, Modi repeatedly emphasized that development and security go hand in hand. By eliminating Maoist influence and extending government services to previously neglected tribal areas, the state has created conditions for sustained growth. Infrastructure projects, schools, and hospitals now complement a strengthened law-and-order framework, enabling Chhattisgarh to move from being a conflict zone to a hub of progress.

Later in the day, Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects worth ₹14,260 crore across multiple sectors, including roads, industry, healthcare, and energy. He underscored that these initiatives aim to accelerate the pace of development, provide employment opportunities, and ensure equitable growth across the state.

In his remarks, Modi highlighted the broader significance of these achievements. “Despite facing the challenge of Maoism for 25 years, Chhattisgarh kept moving forward. Now, with the end of Maoism, our pace of development will only accelerate,” he said, framing the state’s journey as a model for other regions impacted by extremism.

He also praised the role of institutions like the Brahma Kumaris, emphasizing their contribution to societal development and moral guidance. Modi urged citizens to embrace a spirit of service and unity, ensuring that governance is inclusive and people-centric.

Concluding his address, Modi reaffirmed his vision of a secure, prosperous, and developed India. By highlighting Chhattisgarh’s success in overcoming Maoist extremism, he positioned the state as a symbol of resilience and progress, demonstrating that coordinated governance, infrastructural development, and community engagement can transform even the most challenging regions.

The Prime Minister’s remarks on Chhattisgarh’s 25th foundation day underscored a narrative of hope, progress, and national pride. From reducing Maoist-affected districts from 125 to just three, to opening schools and bringing electricity to remote villages, the state’s journey reflects a larger story of India’s determination to secure its citizens, promote development, and realize the vision of a prosperous, unified nation.