Raipur/Jagdalpur, Feb 9 (NationPress) Emphasizing that the battle against Naxalism aims to protect the safety and future of tribal communities rather than targeting individuals, Union Home Minister Amit Shah renewed his appeal for Maoists to surrender their weapons and embrace the path of development.

While addressing a tribal assembly in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, during the closing event of the Bastar Pandum festival, he extended a heartfelt invitation to those still wielding arms to return to society, promising dignified rehabilitation through a state-sponsored package that has already inspired over 2,500 individuals to abandon violence. Nevertheless, he cautioned that those engaging in acts like planting improvised explosive devices, assaulting villages, or vandalizing schools would face stringent repercussions, reaffirming that any form of violence will encounter resolute opposition and that Maoism has led to nothing but devastation.

Pointing out the impressive advancements in Bastar, HM Shah noted that the region is now being recognized as a beacon of progress across the nation.

Schools that had remained shuttered for years are reopening, and he assured the crowd that within five years, Bastar will transform into the most developed division in Chhattisgarh. By December 27, each village will gain access to electricity, mobile networks, and comprehensive healthcare, educational institutions, postal services, and essential amenities, he informed the gathering of tribal community members.

The government is committed to purchasing all produce from tribal farmers, supplying free rice, gas cylinders, and piped water, while also fostering fresh opportunities like adventure tourism, homestays, canopy walks, and glass bridges after the eradication of Naxalism.

HM Shah unveiled a series of significant development initiatives: a new 118-acre industrial zone, an irrigation and 120-megawatt power project on the Indravati River, the ongoing Rs 3,500-crore Raoghat-Jagdalpur railway line, river interlinking projects, and vocational training for 90,000 young individuals.

He highlighted the notable transition from a curfew-like state to one filled with joy and cultural festivities at night, marking a substantial shift in Bastar’s societal landscape.

The Home Minister celebrated Bastar’s rich tribal heritage, which includes communities like the Abuj Maria, Dandami Maria, Muria, Gond, Halba, Bhatra, Dorla, Dhurwa, Parja, and Gadaba, each showcasing unique languages, dances such as Sur Kasar, Rela, and Ghotul, and traditions preserved through generations.

He commended the Bastar Pandum festival for promoting this culture on a national stage and announced that the top-performing teams across all 12 categories would be invited to Rashtrapati Bhavan to showcase their talents and dine with the President, calling it a distinguished honor.

HM Shah also acknowledged the contributions of security forces -- Chhattisgarh Police, DRG, CRPF, ITBP, and BSF -- who have laid down their lives and sustained injuries in the struggle against Naxalism.

On behalf of Bastar’s tribal population, he expressed profound gratitude and condolences to the families of fallen heroes. He expressed unwavering belief that Naxalism will be completely eradicated from Bastar within the designated timeframe.

Concluding with a powerful chant of “Jai Danteshwari Mai” and “Vande Mataram”, HM Shah reaffirmed that Bastar’s true essence lies not in violence but in its extraordinary art, culture, music, and heritage -- treasures that are jewels of Indian civilization.