Raipur, August 15 (HS):

Marking the 79th Independence Day from the historic ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made special mention of Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, once synonymous with Naxal violence. He declared with pride that the image of Bastar has transformed dramatically — from the shadow of insurgency to the spotlight of sporting excellence.

“There was a time,” the Prime Minister recalled, “when the mere mention of Bastar evoked thoughts of extremism and bloodshed. Today, that chapter is history. Now, the world knows Bastar for its sporting spirit, not for violence.”

Highlighting the rise of youth engagement in the area, he applauded initiatives like the Bastar Olympics, calling them a vivid symbol of the region’s energy, talent, and enthusiasm. This transformation, PM Modi said, is the result of a unique blend of security measures, developmental efforts, and robust public participation.

Reflecting on the broader fight against Naxalism, the Prime Minister noted that the menace, which once gripped vast parts of India, has now been reduced to just a fraction of its former reach. “In the past 11 years, the footprint of Naxal violence has shrunk from over 125 districts to just around 20,” he stated.

From sports and education to tourism and employment, Bastar is now witnessing a surge in new opportunities. PM Modi expressed confidence that this new identity would become a source of pride and inspiration for future generations, as the region firmly moves ahead on the path of peace, progress, and glory.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar