Chhattisgarh areas, once part of red corridor, now centres of peace: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the transformation of certain areas in Chhattisgarh, previously considered part of the Maoist "red corridor," into centers of peace, trust, and development. In a letter to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on the state's foundation day, Modi stated that the end of Left Wing Extremism has been a "decisive" turning point for the region. The violence had long hindered progress, but now the state is witnessing a shift towards modernization and prosperity.

Modi noted that years ago, the red corridor of Naxalism was notorious, but today it is becoming a hub of peace and development. This transformation has spurred the expansion of connectivity and infrastructure. What was once a single daily flight between Delhi and Raipur 25 years ago now operates four modern airports. Additionally, over ₹51,000 crore worth of railway projects are underway, along with the introduction of high-speed Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains.

The development of roads has reduced travel time between Raipur and Bilaspur by nearly half, while upcoming expressways connecting major economic hubs are poised to boost industry and employment.

The Prime Minister also highlighted various welfare schemes, including the provision of free grains to 7.3 million families through the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, the construction of 2.2 million houses, and the provision of tap water and LPG connections to millions of people. In terms of agricultural support, the state's paddy procurement system is providing better prices to over 2.5 million farmers, strengthening the rural economy.

Over 6.8 million women are receiving a monthly stipend of ₹1,000 under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, empowering them economically and encouraging their participation in family and societal roles.

Industrially, Chhattisgarh is witnessing growth, with Nava Raipur emerging as a modern city and opportunities being explored in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, IT, power, aluminum, and steel. Bastar, too, is moving forward towards peace and development, with initiatives like Niyad Nellanar, livelihood development schemes, and Mukhyamantri Swasth Bastar extending basic facilities to its people. PM Modi emphasized that Bastar is now moving forward on a new path of peace, good governance, and prosperity.