Lauds Karregutta Anti-Naxal Operation, Emphasizes Education, Employment, and Inclusive Growth
Bijapur/Dantewada, May 15 — Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday visited the Naxal-affected districts of Bijapur and Dantewada in the Bastar region, following the recent major anti-Naxal operation in the Karregutta hills along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border. The high-profile visit aimed to boost security forces' morale and reinforce the state’s development-led governance model in conflict zones.Addressing security personnel involved in the Karregutta operation, Sai said the battle for Bastar’s peace and progress would not be won by weapons and courage alone but through education, employment, and inclusive development.
Karregutta Operation: A Strategic Breakthrough
The Karregutta mission resulted in the elimination of 31 Naxals, including senior leaders of the outlawed outfit. In addition to neutralising key targets, security forces defused over 450 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and seized a significant cache of advanced weaponry. Sai underscored the importance of leveraging such victories to usher in sustainable peace, calling it a historic breakthrough.Governance at the Grassroots: ‘Sushasan Tyohaar’
The Chief Minister's visit formed a key part of the state's flagship initiative, Sushasan Tyohaar (Good Governance Festival), which focuses on decentralised governance and real-time tracking of public welfare schemes.During his stop at Muler village in Bijapur, Sai personally assessed the delivery of essential services. He interacted with residents to verify the availability of food rations, the functioning of schools, and access to housing benefits. According to officials, immediate action was taken wherever gaps were reported.
Development Projects Under Review
In the 474-resident village of Muler, the chief minister inspected a new primary school and reviewed the progress of 22 under-construction houses under the PM Awas Yojana. He also evaluated a Rs 4.5 lakh community toilet project.He praised the efforts of the Lakshmi Self-Help Group (SHG), which has already posted a profit of Rs 40,000, calling it a model of grassroots empowerment and economic self-reliance.
Digital Literacy and Modern Learning
Sai also visited the transformed central library in Bijapur, which now functions as a modern learning hub. Since January 22, 2025, the facility has hosted computer training sessions attended by 30 students, while career guidance programs launched on April 1 have drawn 60 participants.The centre, equipped with cutting-edge tools like VR headsets, daylight scopes, and Alexa-enabled devices, aims to provide interactive and immersive learning experiences for the youth.
Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Surrendered Naxals
At a former Navodaya Vidyalaya hostel rehabilitation facility, the chief minister met 90 surrendered Naxals currently undergoing skill training in drone operation, poultry farming, and taxi driving. The centre, which can accommodate up to 150 individuals, also offers documentation support services for Aadhaar, ration cards, and voter IDs.Sai reaffirmed the government's commitment to fully integrate these individuals into district-level development initiatives, ensuring they are treated with dignity and given meaningful roles in rebuilding Bastar.
The Chief Minister's visit, which focused on security, development, and rehabilitation, signals a multi-pronged strategy to transform the Bastar region into a beacon of peace and progress.
