Raipur, September 06, 2026: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has stated that the trajectory of development in Bastar will be determined solely by the aspirations and expectations of the local people. The people of Bastar need not harbour any misconceptions in this regard.
Sai said the government is promoting livelihood and development opportunities aligned with local potential, including agriculture, tourism, and animal husbandry. The government will proceed in the direction of development desired by the people of Bastar.
In a media interview, the Chief Minister answered various questions and spoke at length on topics such as Bastar’s development, the decisive success achieved against Naxalism, and women’s empowerment.
Responding to a question regarding Bastar, Sai said that the region had lagged behind the mainstream of development for decades due to Naxalism. Now that the fight against Naxalism has reached a decisive stage and an atmosphere of peace and development has emerged, some individuals are attempting to spread the misconception that the government’s aim in eliminating Naxalism is to pave the way for large industries. Categorically rejecting this claim, the Chief Minister stated that this is absolutely not the case; Bastar’s future will be shaped in accordance with the aspirations and wishes of its people.
Sai remarked that those who never stood by the government in the fight against Naxalism, or who supported it, either directly or indirectly, are now trying to create confusion among the public through a new narrative. The people of Bastar are aware and fully understand such misleading attempts. Our government’s objective is to bring prosperity to the lives of the local people by harnessing Bastar’s natural, cultural, and economic potential.
He added that the government is continuously working to strengthen agriculture, promote animal husbandry, and transform the immense potential for tourism into tangible opportunities in Bastar. With the establishment of peace, development is now reaching remote areas, and new opportunities for education, employment, and self-employment are emerging for local youth. Our endeavor is for Bastar to scale new heights of development while preserving its unique identity and rich culture.
Responding to a question about being addressed as ‘Vishnu Bhaiya’ by the state’s sisters and the deep, personal bond he shares with them, Sai said that the sisters of the state call him ‘Bhaiya’ and regard him as a family member. What greater privilege could there be for him? The affection and blessings he receives from these sisters constantly inspire him to serve the public.
The Chief Minister stated that, as a brother, he is committed to serving the state’s sisters, ensuring their safety, and bringing happiness to their lives. The government is continuously working to make women economically empowered and self-reliant, while also upholding their dignity, self-respect, and safety. He added that the aim is to ensure every sister in the state has ample opportunities to progress and plays a significant role in the advancement of her family and Chhattisgarh with self-confidence.
Sai remarked that the public’s trust and affection constitute his greatest strength. The welfare of the people of Chhattisgarh lies at the heart of every policy and decision made by the government.
From the development of Bastar to the empowerment of mothers and sisters, the government’s resolve is clear: development must be participatory, respect local aspirations, and ensure its benefits reach the last person in line, the Chief Minister said.
