‘Naxalism confined to just five, six districts', says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
The Maoist hubs have been transformed into educational hubs. The area known as Red Corridor is now rapidly changing into a growth corridor, he said, speaking at the 128th birth anniversary celebrations of freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju organised by Kshatriya Seva Samiti (TG & AP) and Union Ministry of Culture.
Mr. Singh said the government has taken a decision that by March 31 next year, the entire country would be maoist-free.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, he emphasised that only terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan was targeted, avoiding civil or military establishments, and adhering to ethical principles.
He lauded Sitarama Raju, the legendary freedom fighter from Andhra Pradesh, as an embodiment of courage, duty and 'karma'.
Similarily, the country's brave soldiers demonstrated courage, duty and 'karma' in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, he said.
Quoting from Ramayan, he said, during 'Lanka Dahan', Lord Hanuman hit only those who hit him.
Similarly, the country demonstrated courage during Operation Sindoor and targeted only terror structures in Pakistan and not civilian or military establishments, he said.
"I would also like to say, if any such mischief (Pahalgam terror attack) takes place in future, we will give befitting to reply to terrorism with the same strength," he said.
The life of Sitarama Raju, who hails from Andhra Pradesh, is also an example of social unity, he said.
Mr. Singh said new technology, infrastructure development and digital revolution are very much needed for development in the context of a 'New India', but it is the "cultural soul" which can keep the country united.
He affirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working to realise the vision of Sitarama Raju on tribal development through various central initiatives.
The tenet of 'Viksit Bharat', he explained, involves taking pride in its cultural heritage, while upholding constitutional values and being inspired by the dreams of the youth.
Mr. Singh also urged everyone to take the life of Sitarama Raju to every school and home.
Speaking on the occasion, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said Sitarama Raju, in the short span of his life (less than 30 years), stood as an inspiration and his memory makes the countrymen feel proud.
Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy, Karnataka Minister Bose Raju, former Union Minister P Ashok Gajapati Raju and other leaders were present on the occasion.
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