Regions once Maoist strongholds showing clear signs of progress: PM Modi

Time of India

25-05-2025

NEW DELHI: From improved school results in tribal districts to young people mastering local crafts and schoolchildren learning to make healthier food choices, regions once affected by Maoist insurgency were showing clear signs of progress, PM Narendra Modi said on Sunday.
Students in remote areas were excelling in academics and science, engaging in sports, and embracing vocational training, and Katejhari village in Gadchiroli recently welcomed its first-ever bus service, greeted with drums and jubilation, Modi said in his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio programme.
The PM spoke extensively on how once insurgency-affected areas were turning a new page. "Students there have achieved 95% results in Class 10th exams, and in Class 12th results, Dantewada has secured sixth position in the entire state," he said, celebrating educational success in a region long overshadowed by conflict.
His remarks came days after a top Maoist leader, Basavaraju, was killed in an encounter in Chhattisgarh - seen as a key moment in the continuing push to restore peace. Yet, beyond the security lens, Modi chose to emphasise everyday development as the true sign of change. "This is not just a sign of development, but also of rising confidence," he said, referring to how residents of Katejhari village in Gadchiroli celebrated the launch of their first-ever bus service with drums and joy.
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"This is a new chapter of change in areas previously trapped in fear," he added.
Modi underlined how tribal children were now exploring science labs and competing in large events like Bastar Olympics. "Children of these areas are doing wonders in every field. These students are not only progressing in academics, but also showing interest in science and playing with full enthusiasm," he said.
He also drew attention to youth taking pride in their heritage by learning traditional skills.
"Many youths have started making musical instruments and decorative items used in local festivals," he said, noting that such activities preserve culture while offering new economic opportunities. "Young people of these areas are also getting involved in skill development," he added. Local training centres are increasingly offering courses that align with community livelihoods, helping youth turn their skills into sustainable incomes.
In an example of health awareness, Modi spoke about the use of "sugar boards" in schools. These boards list the sugar content in popular foods and beverages to help children make informed dietary choices. "Children are getting motivated to consume sugar in a balanced way," he said. Schools are using this initiative to encourage nutrition literacy and combat rising lifestyle diseases at an early stage.
Through education, skills and awareness, these regions are reclaiming their future - one student, one artisan and one village at a time.