Opinion From Naxal-affected state to a growth story: Chhattisgarh turns 25
Rooted in tradition and partnership, the state is ready for the future with pride and purpose
The New Industrial Development Policy 2024–30 ensures inclusive and future-ready growth. It provides incentives for marginalised groups so development reaches all communities. When Chhattisgarh was created in 2000, few imagined it would soon script a story of progress and aspiration. As the state marks 25 years, the milestone reflects the resolve of its people.
Guided by PM Narendra Modi’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, aur Sabka Prayas, Chhattisgarh has shown that progress begins when everyone gets fair opportunities. The celebration honours the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose belief in decentralisation and grassroots empowerment laid the state’s foundation.
Chhattisgarh is transforming from a land of natural wealth to one of human potential. Agriculture remains central to its identity. In 2024-25, the state procured a record 149 lakh tonnes of paddy, transferring ₹29,036 crore directly to 25.49 lakh farmers. At ₹3,100 per quintal, including bonuses, this is India’s highest procurement rate. Long-pending dues were cleared, bringing relief to farming families. Irrigation, crop diversification, and Farmer-Producer Organisations are raising rural incomes, while women farmers under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana are emerging as key drivers of prosperity.
Chhattisgarh’s economy now extends beyond agriculture. In the last 21 months, it has attracted ₹7.5 lakh crore in investments across steel, logistics, IT, medical devices, and green industries. A semiconductor plant in Nava Raipur, with an investment of ₹1,143 crore, will create jobs and place the state on India’s technology map.
The New Industrial Development Policy 2024–30 ensures inclusive and future-ready growth. It provides incentives for marginalised groups so development reaches all communities. Priority sectors include steel, logistics, textiles, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, food processing, green industries, and defence manufacturing. Single Window 2.0 offers real-time approvals, turning Ease into Speed of Business, while the Jan Vishwas Bill eases compliance and builds investor confidence.
Special industrial packages in Bastar and Surguja are promoting regional balance, with tourism recognised as an industry. Sustainability guides the policy with incentives for renewable energy, electric mobility, and clean technologies.
Over the decade, Rs 21,000 crore has been invested in highways. By 2030, rail and air links will expand further.
Once a symbol of struggle, Bastar now stands for renewal. Development and security have reduced violence, opening paths for rehabilitation and opportunity. Since December 2023, 477 extremists were neutralised, 2,152 surrendered, and 1,797 apprehended, showing growing faith in peace.
Events like the Bastar Olympics and Bastar Pandum nurture pride among the youth. Roads, schools, and health centres now reach villages once beyond the map. Nearly one-third of the population is Scheduled Tribes, and their progress defines the state’s shared future. Initiatives such as PM Janman and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan expand education, healthcare, and livelihoods.
Youth remain Chhattisgarh’s strength. Recruitment is underway and ITIs are being upgraded. The Technical Education and Skill Development Centre in Nava Raipur, with NIELIT, prepares students for digital careers.
Heritage too is becoming a livelihood through the Homestay Policy and rural tourism. Atmanirbhar Bharat begins with industries and innovation, but true self-reliance also begins in homes and villages —with women. Fifty-one Mahtari Sadans have been dedicated to women in rural Chhattisgarh, empowering them and promoting self-reliance.
Chhattisgarh’s rise is integral to India’s march toward Viksit Bharat 2047. Priorities include irrigation for all, super-speciality hospitals in every district, renewable energy, eco-tourism, stronger transport, and livelihoods for tribal communities.
Every start-up, homestay, and skill centre advances Chhattisgarh’s Vision 2047. The farmer who tills with faith, the tribal youth who strives with pride, the entrepreneur who builds with hope, and the child who learns with dreams — all are shaping the state’s next chapter. Rooted in tradition and partnership, the state is ready for the future with pride and purpose.
The writer is Chief Minister, Chhattisgarh
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