Latest news with #Naxalism
New Indian Express
an hour ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Centre committing excesses in the name of Operation Kagar: Mahesh Kumar Goud
HYDERABAD: TPCC president B Mahesh Kumar Goud on Sunday strongly criticised 'Operation Kagar', which was launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs to eliminate the Maoist insurgency, calling it a move that undermines the spirit of the Constitution. Speaking at a round-table conference organised by the Peace Dialogue Committee here in the city, he accused the Centre of committing excesses under the pretext of addressing law-and-order issues, rather than exploring peaceful solutions to address Naxalism. He accused the Union government of violating constitutional principles and likened its rule to fascism. Operation Kagar is a covert strategy to transfer the rich mineral resources of central India's forests to large corporate interests, he alleged. 'Prime Minister Modi ignored the appeals of Maoists for peace talks, but was quick to agree to negotiations with terrorists after being scolded by US President Donald Trump,' Mahesh Goud claimed. The TPCC chief questioned the Centre's approach, asking why it was so intent on wiping out a group of Indian citizens while being open to a ceasefire with Pakistan. He emphasised that any government should act in accordance with the Constitution of India. Reiterating the Congress' commitment to non-violence, he stated that the party condemns all forms of violence. He added that Naxalism emerged as a response to economic inequality and noted that in some areas, it had helped curb atrocities in villages. However, he noted that individuals within the Naxalite movement later allowed personal vendettas to influence their actions.
The Print
2 hours ago
- Politics
- The Print
Operation Black Forest—how Modi-Shah's push for a Naxalism-free India is gaining ground
A significant achievement has been the elimination of a top Maoist leader, Basavaraju or Nambala Keshava Rao, in Chattisgarh's Abujhmad on 21 May. This operation, code-named Operation Black Forest, was aimed at dismantling Naxal and Maoist networks. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah are determined to eradicate Left Wing Extremism in the country and this was reflected in the latter's words: 'Our target is to end it completely by March 31, 2026.' While India celebrated the success of Operation Sindoor, another effective operation was underway in the heartland of India. The war against Left Wing Extremism has been quietly and steadily taking place in the country's interiors where a Red corridor existed from 'Pashupati to Tirupati', undermining the progress made under the democratic reforms as envisioned by the founding fathers of the Indian Constitution. What is Naxalism? Naxalism is a far-Left political ideology inspired by a blend of Lenin's ideologies, Karl Marx's theories, and Mao Zedong's form of Communism. It derives its name from Naxalbari, a hamlet in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, where a group led by the trio of Charu Majumdar, Kanu Sanyal, and Jangal Santhal, rose up and created an armed conflict in 1967. The uprising was speedily quashed by the state government. But it sparked off a nationwide movement, all the way from the borders of Nepal to the temple towns of southern India. The Naxalites used violence in the name of ideological or philosophical ideals. They called it an uprising against injustice and class struggle, or an armed revolution, where ideologies were imported from the Communist Bloc to destroy democratic values in India. The movement is also influenced by Mao's People's War, based on guerrilla warfare and rural uprising, hence giving rise to the moniker 'Maoists'. The Maoists consider the country and the Indian Constitution as their enemy and constantly engage in guerrilla-style warfare against the state. After Charu Majumdar's death in 1972, the Communist Party of India Marxist-Leninist, which he founded, weakened and splintered up, only to get a new lifeline in the 1990s and early 2000s. While the Communist parties remained within the parameters of the Constitution, the CPI (Maoist) operated as a fringe outfit, indulging in law and order violations with a militant mindset to fight the state. Their activities extended in primarily rural, mineral-rich, and underdeveloped belts of Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. The central goal has been to capture power through armed insurrection and violence. The CPI (Maoist) emerged in 2004 with the merger of splinter groups, namely the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) People's War and the Maoist Communist Centre of India. While China, the country where this ideology originated, does not allow such extremist philosophies to operate on its soil, in India, these organisations have been placed on terrorist list and are banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. Also read: The very people that Naxals claimed to fight for have rejected them Why was it important to curtail Maoism? According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Maoist insurgency has become a serious internal security challenge and an 'impediment to the nation-building process'. The Maoists had set up a parallel government in remote and less–inhabited areas, leading to a governmental vacuum and a concerning security situation that threatened the integrity and sovereignty of India. They do not recognise private investment and infrastructure development, and are against government welfare schemes. They ran parallel governments, engaged in unlawful activities like arms trafficking and extortion, and obstructed the functioning of schools and hospitals to ensure their sphere of influence prospered. The principles of Maoism erode the very tenets of democracy, as they are against free and fair elections and the democratic process. Maoists claim to protect the interests of the tribals and the landless, but in reality, they deny access to development and welfare for these neglected people. According to the South Asia Terrorism Portal, the Maoist insurgency has claimed nearly 12,000 lives since 2000. Not only are the poor civilians caught in the crossfire between the insurgents and the police forces, but valuable resources and funds that could be used for infrastructural development are diverted for anti-insurgency operations. There ought to be no misunderstanding: Maoists are a threat to national security, as they vociferously reject the Indian Constitution and aim to overthrow democratically elected governments through violence and anarchy, with the ultimate aim to control resources and create a parallel economy of terror and disruption. Economic consequences of the 'Red' movement The 'Red corridor' has been reduced to a handful of 'Red' hotspots, as per the MHA. The economic consequences of Left Wing Extremism have been far-reaching and monumental, mainly due to loss and damage to infrastructure, power lines, bridges, railway tracks; and the costs of deployment of security forces, loss to industry and mining operations. Further, according to a 2009 Hindustan Times report, a parallel economy worth Rs 1,500 crore had been operating in Naxal-affected regions, where these LWE groups would extort money from contractors and industrial houses to line the pockets of their commanders. Often, companies are compelled to pay huge sums to ensure their operations are not disrupted. Moreoever, naxalism impacts foreign investments as well. Also read: Success against Maoist leader Basavaraju was unthinkable a few years ago—here's what changed BJP government's action plan In 2006, a Left Wing Extremism Division was created under the aegis of the Ministry of Home Affairs to monitor and control this scourge of society. A concerted game plan was initiated to counter this homegrown terror. The Union Home Minister would meet with the chief ministers of LWE-affected states every year and make personal visits to review the situation on the ground. The Cabinet Secretary is also expected to hold regular review meetings with the Chief Secretaries, the DGs and the DGPs. A concerted plan to end the Naxal movement is in place, and it is clear that PM Modi and Amit Shah mean business. 'The day is not far when Maoist violence will be completely eradicated from the country,' PM Modi said last week while announcing infrastructure projects worth over Rs 48,520 crore in Bihar's Karakat. Schemes to strengthen the security forces against LWE have been initiated such as the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme, Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS), and Fortified Police Station scheme under which 626 such police stations have been constructed. The Road Requirement Plan-I (RRP-I) for LWE-affected areas scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways for improving road connectivity in 34 LWE affected districts of eight states—Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh. This scheme envisaged construction of 5,361 km road lengths in LWE-affected states, of which 5,204 km roads have been completed, according to the home ministry. Another scheme, Road Connectivity Project for LWE-affected areas (RCPLWE), worth Rs 11,725 crore, has been approved for the construction of 12,228 km of roads and 705 bridges sanctioned in LWE-affected states under the Ministry of Rural Development, out of which 9,506 km roads and 479 bridge works have been completed. Three telecom projects—Mobile Connectivity Project Phase-I & Phase-II, Provision of 4G mobile services in the villages of aspirational districts, and Saturation of 4G mobile services—are being implemented in LWE-affected areas to improve telecom connectivity. In total, 10,511 mobile towers are planned in LWE-affected areas under these projects, of which 7,777 mobile towers have been installed so far. This will help monitor and control Naxal terrorism in the affected areas. The Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP), launched in 2018, has also been a game-changer in uplifting underdeveloped districts through data-driven and inclusive governance. The double engine of PM Modi and Amit Shah envisage a holistic integration of former Naxalites into a civil society based on the tenets of inclusion and equality as envisaged by the founding fathers of the Constitution of India, creating a space for positive dialogue and rehabilitation of former rebels. Outreach programmes for the tribal youth are being conducted and a budget of Rs 52.5 crore has been released for this purpose. It involves influencing the youth through jingles, pamphlet distribution, and documentaries to help them eschew the path of conflict and embrace life under the umbrella of the Constitution. The aim is to mainstream the people by encouraging them to leave the path of violence and choose peace and prosperity to help build an inclusive society. Meenakashi Lekhi is a BJP leader, lawyer and social activist. Her X handle is @M_Lekhi. Views are personal. (Edited by Aamaan Alam Khan)
Time of India
12 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Chhattisgarh CM Vishnudeo Sai sees turning point in war on Maoists
File photo: Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai applying 'tilak' to a security personnel as he congratulated them on the fight against naxals (Picture credit: ANI) RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh CM Vishnudeo Sai said targeted welfare programmes and sustained security ops have dismantled Maoist networks across Bastar and laid the groundwork for enduring peace. In an interview with TOI, Sai declared a turning point after 18 months of intense counter-insurgency efforts. "Our approach combines robust security measures with a strong emphasis on addressing root causes through development & inclusive policies. We aim to achieve a Naxal-free Chhattisgarh by March 31, '26." Not only eliminating Maoists but also Naxalism's roots: CM A combination of targeted welfare programmes and sustained security operations has dismantled Maoist networks across Bastar and laid groundwork for enduring peace, Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai told TOI. Sai declared a turning point after 18 months of intense counter-insurgency efforts, which included the killing of CPI (Maoist) general secretary Basavaraju on May 21. "Our approach combines robust security measures with a strong emphasis on addressing root causes through development and inclusive policies," he said. "We aim to achieve a Naxal-free Chhattisgarh by March 31, 2026." The CM said his government plans to transform tribal-majority Bastar as well as the state through education, skilling, welfare projects, and inclusive policies. Government forces have penetrated deep into forested terrain long considered inaccessible, setting up security camps that now act as outposts of governance. These camps are enabling the spread of basic services and infrastructure in isolated tribal areas. The CM said these camps will remain as long as necessary. "Security has improved dramatically, there's a sharp decline in violence and 1,355 Maoists have surrendered," Sai said. "Our surrender and rehabilitation policy has successfully reintegrated former Naxals, while initiatives like Niyad Nella Nar Yojana are promoting growth and stability in villages within a 10km radius of security camps." Asked about public protests against blanket amnesty for hardcore Maoists, Sai struck a conciliatory tone. "I understand the pain and anger of families who have lost loved ones. Their suffering is immeasurable," he said. "The government is committed to ensuring justice and addressing their concerns with utmost sensitivity. The surrender policy is constantly under review. We are committed to finding the right balance between encouraging surrender and ensuring accountability. " Critics have alleged that anti-Maoist operations are paving the way for mining interests. Sai dismissed these concerns. "Such allegations are unfounded. Our government's primary focus is the development and well-being of Bastar and its people," he said. Addressing controversy over mining in the Hasdeo forest, Sai acknowledged the complexities in balancing development with indigenous rights. "We are committed to a path of responsible and inclusive development. This involves engaging with tribal communities, respecting their traditional rights over land and resources, and ensuring they benefit from development projects." He credited the "double engine government" - a term often used to describe BJP-led governments at both state and central levels - for accelerating Bastar's transformation. "Under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah, Bastar is witnessing transformative development," he said. "Effective policy implementation and better resource allocation are possible because of this synergy." Sai emphasised a broader vision for the state beyond mining. "Chhattisgarh is more than just a mineral-rich state," he said. "Recently, we conducted bhoomi pujan for a semiconductor manufacturing unit and an AI data centre in Nava Raipur. Many IT companies have shown interest in investing here."He said Chhattisgarh ranks among the most progressive states in governance and innovation. "Even Bastar, once overshadowed by conflict, has begun attracting investment. We are witnessing a revival of cultural pride and local economic activity, marking a new era of hope. "
Time of India
15 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
‘Bastar & Entire State Going Through Transformation'
A two-pronged strategy of intense security operations and sustained push for development in deprived regions has put Bastar on the path of transformation, Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai tells TOI. On the back of unprecedented success in the mission to root out Naxalism, peaking with the elimination of CPI (Maoist) general secretary Basavaraju on May 21, the CM outlines his govt's plans to not only transform Bastar but the entire state through education, skilling, welfare projects and inclusive policies The Maoist insurgency raged through 15 years of BJP govt and five years of Congress govt before you became chief minister. What did your govt do differently that broke the backbone of the insurgency in Chhattisgarh and eliminated over 400 Maoists, including CPI (Maoist) general secretary Basavaraju? n Our govt has adopted a determined and multi-pronged strategy to address the Maoist insurgency. We are implementing meticulously planned welfare programmes to ensure development reaches even the most remote corners of the tribal heartland. Simultaneously, we are executing strategic security operations to build a foundation for long-lasting peace. Security efforts remain a priority, and sustained operations have led to a significant decline in violent incidents. A substantial number of extremists have surrendered, while many have been apprehended or neutralised. Providing secure and dignified housing for those affected by Naxal violence, as well as for surrendered extremists, is a key focus — offering them the stability needed to rebuild their lives. Our rehabilitation policy for surrendered Naxalites is progressive and humane, with provisions for monthly stipends, skill enhancement programmes, and even land allocation to support their reintegration in society. Our dedication to development is evident in the construction of new schools, the reopening of those shut down due to violence, the extension of electricity to remote villages, and significant improvements in infrastructure. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Undo Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah, Bastar is witnessing transformative development, creating a powerful synergy for progress. This 'Double Engine Govt" approach — with strong coordination between the central and state govts — has facilitated effective policy implementation and resource allocation. When did you learn that Basavaraju was killed? How was the identification confirmed? n Security forces and intelligence agencies follow due process for diligent verification in such cases. However, details regarding the precise timeline and other specifics cannot be disclosed at this moment. What was the turning point in the battle against Maoists? When did you realise that the goal of a Naxal-free Chhattisgarh was achievable? n The turning point in our battle against the Maoists has been the shift toward a proactive and integrated strategy. This approach combines robust security measures with a strong emphasis on addressing the root causes of the conflict through development and inclusive policies. The increasing number of surrenders we are witnessing indicates the success of this strategy. We aim to achieve a Naxal-free Chhattisgarh by March 31, 2026. Now that the Maoists are headless and rudderless, how will your govt use this opportunity in Bastar? What would be your top three priorities there? n With the changing dynamics of the Maoist presence, my govt is determined to utilise this opportunity to accelerate Bastar's integration into the mainstream of development. Our priorities are clear. First, we are focusing on infrastructure development — building roads, bridges, and improving connectivity to open up remote areas and boost economic activity. Second, we are investing heavily in human development through education, skill-building, and healthcare to ensure our people have the tools and opportunities to thrive. Third, we are promoting sustainable economic growth by supporting local industries, developing tourism, and creating an environment that attracts investment—all while preserving Bastar's unique cultural heritage. What would you count as your govt's successes so far in Bastar? n Our govt has achieved significant milestones in restoring peace and accelerating development in Bastar. Security has improved dramatically, with a sharp decline in violence and 1,355 Maoists surrendering — signalling a shift away from extremism. Development is now reaching the most remote areas — new schools are opening, electricity is reaching unconnected villages, and road networks are expanding. Our surrender and rehabilitation policy has successfully reintegrated former Naxals, while initiatives like the Niyad Nella Nar Yojana are promoting growth and stability in villages within a 10-km radius of security camps, ensuring that progress and security reinforce each other. Additionally, we are witnessing a revival of cultural pride and local economic activity, marking a new era of hope in Bastar. What would you count as continued challenges in Bastar's development, and how will you overcome them? n While we have achieved much, challenges remain. Continued infrastructure development is crucial to ensure the benefits of progress reach every corner of Bastar. We must also sustain our efforts to create diverse economic opportunities and ensure development is both inclusive and sustainable. Maintaining security and effectively managing the surrender process are ongoing priorities. To overcome these challenges, we will continue to invest in infrastructure, promote sustainable economic activities, prioritise education and skill development, and maintain a calibrated approach to security and reintegration. Your govt says that police camps in Maoist strongholds were vital in ushering in development projects like roads, electricity, and schools in Bastar's undeveloped regions. How long will the camps remain? n Security camps have played a crucial role in facilitating development in previously inaccessible areas. They provide a secure environment that enables the construction of schools, roads, and other essential infrastructure, besides instilling a sense of security among the local population. The camps will remain as long as necessary to ensure the safety of the people and to continue supporting development efforts. According to the govt, more than 1,300 Maoists have given up arms in the last 18 months or so. Your govt's surrender policy offers a near-blanket pardon to Maoists, even hardcore killers. For instance, there were protests by villagers against the rehabilitation of Maoist commander Dinesh Modiyam — who was blamed for the murder of over 100 jawans and villagers — yet the administration remained silent. What would you tell the families of his victims? n Our surrender policy is designed to encourage individuals to lay down arms and return to the path of peace. It is a complex issue, balancing the need for reconciliation with the demands of justice. I understand the pain and anger of the families who have lost loved ones. Their suffering is immeasurable. While I cannot comment on specific cases, I assure them that the govt is committed to ensuring justice and addressing their concerns with the utmost sensitivity. Will you consider tweaking the surrender policy to bring hardcore Maoists to justice after they give up arms? n The surrender policy is constantly under review. We are committed to finding the right balance between encouraging surrender and ensuring accountability. The focus remains on creating a pathway for peace while upholding the principles of justice. What would you say to critics who allege that the intense crackdown on Maoists was meant to clear the path for mining by big industrial houses? n Such allegations are unfounded. Our govt's primary focus is the development and well-being of Bastar and its people. While we are working to attract responsible investment and promote industrial growth, this is being done in a way that benefits local communities and respects their rights and traditions. Our commitment to ending extremism is about creating an environment where peace and progress can flourish for everyone. Chhattisgarh has much potential beyond mining. Have the govt's attempts to attract investment in the IT sector worked? n Chhattisgarh is indeed diversifying its economy. We are actively working to attract investment in sectors beyond mining, including the IT sector. Recently, we conducted the Bhoomi Pujan for a semiconductor manufacturing unit and an AI data centre in Nava Raipur. It's a major step towards boosting tech infrastructure and investment. Many other IT companies have shown interest in investing here. These efforts are ongoing, and we are seeing encouraging signs of growth. The state offers a skilled workforce, a favourable investment climate, and expanding infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for IT companies. Chhattisgarh still faces the challenge of an image makeover. How do you plan to project Chhattisgarh as a destination for investment? n We are actively working to showcase Chhattisgarh's strengths and potential. This involves promoting our rich cultural heritage, highlighting our economic opportunities, and demonstrating our commitment to good governance and sustainable development. We are investing in infrastructure and connectivity to make the state more accessible and attractive to investors. Our 2025–26 budget has earmarked 9,500 crore for infrastructure, including 2,000 crore for new road construction, complemented by 11,000 crore approved by the Centre for national highway projects such as the Urga-Katghora bypass and the Raipur-Lakhanadon Economic Corridor. Over the past 11 years, more than 21,000 crore have been spent on National Highway development in the state. The Asian Development Bank-supported Chhattisgarh Road Connectivity Project aims to upgrade 850 km of state highways and district roads, especially in tribal and underserved areas. These, along with eight smaller Central Road Fund projects, will enhance trade, decongest industrial zones, and improve rural access. Rail infrastructure is also a priority, with four major projects underway to link mineral belts and industrial hubs, facilitating efficient coal and mineral transport. From just 1,100 km of rail network between 1853 and 2014, the state is now on track to expand to 2,500 km by 2030. Urban mobility is set to transform with the Raipur-Durg metro rail project, now in the feasibility stage, to address rapid urbanisation and traffic growth. Tribal areas and 'Jal-Jungle-Jameen' have long been subjects of debate. There is controversy over mining in Hasdeo Forest, which has significant coal reserves. How will you ensure development and utilisation of mineral resources without antagonising tribal communities? n Balancing development with the rights and concerns of tribal communities is complex. We are committed to a path of development that is both responsible and inclusive. This involves engaging in open dialogue with tribal communities, respecting their traditional rights over land and resources, and ensuring they benefit from development projects. We are also ensuring that sustainable development practices are strictly followed to minimise environmental impact. Chhattisgarh's mining area comprises only 0.7% of the state's total geographical area, as documented by Indian Bureau of Mines. While just 0.02% of land is diverted, around 2.5-3 crore trees are planted annually — among the highest in the country. Chhattisgarh comprises two distinct regions — one affected by Naxalism and another vast area brimming with potential. The state has emerged as one of India's top investment destinations. With over 5.5 lakh crore already invested, primarily in mining, steel, and cement, we are now strategically diversifying into high-growth sectors such as IT, AI, services, and semiconductors. Blessed with vast natural resources and a proactive reform agenda, Chhattisgarh ranks among the most progressive states in governance and policy innovation. Even Bastar, once overshadowed by conflict, is witnessing a transformation and attracting investment. We are actively promoting tourism and offering special incentives for industries in the region. Recognising tourism as a key economic driver, we have granted it industry status, bringing new opportunities for growth and employment. Beyond mining, which sector holds the brightest prospects for Chhattisgarh, and how would you nurture it? n We see immense potential in several sectors. Tourism — particularly eco-tourism — is a key focus. Chhattisgarh's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage offer a unique appeal. We are investing in tourism infrastructure and promoting sustainable tourism practices. Skill development is another priority. By equipping our youth with the skills needed for the modern economy, we are creating a workforce that can drive growth in various sectors. Agriculture and food processing also hold significant promise, given the state's fertile land and abundant agricultural resources.
India Gazette
2 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
"Modi govt and MP govt working keeping in view legacy of veeraanganas...": MP CM Mohan Yadav
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) [India], May 31 (ANI): After Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that the central government and the state government are working keeping in view the legacy of the veeranganas (queens). PM Modi arrived here in Bhopal to attend the 'Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan' program on Saturday, the 300th birthday of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. The Prime Minister also virtually inaugurated the Indore metro and the newly constructed Datia and Satna airports through a single click from the event at the Jamboree ground in the capital city. Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for various development projects in the state and released the 'Commemorative Coin and Stamp' in honour of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar's 300th birthday. After the program, CM Yadav told reporters, 'Today, PM Modi talked about the developments and work being done for women by the central government and the Madhya Pradesh government. He inaugurated Indore metro, two airports (Datia and Satna) and appreciated the efforts for women empowerment. The Modi government and our state government are working keeping in view the legacy of veeraanganas and talking about them by connecting with the present time is something through which we can improve the lives of our sisters.' He further said, 'Regarding Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Modi has already said that 'goli ka jawab gole se diya jaayega'. It is also the strategy of our changing times, will power, the valour of our Army, good leadership and today's situation. Now, the world is getting acquainted with the terror incident that India has faced in the past. The world agrees that if there is any obstacle in India's progress, then the terrorists are sent from neighbouring countries.' PM Modi remembered all the brave veeranganas, including Rani Durgawati and Devi Ahilyabai and explained the importance of women empowerment for India. Additionally, he also introduced everyone about the changing policies of India in the changing times, the CM added. Speaking to ANI, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla said that PM Modi's speech instilled tremendous enthusiasm in the entire audience present on the occasion. 'Today, PM Narendra Modi's speech about women empowerment, Ahilyabai's resolution of justice and good governance, and the strong will to end terrorism like Naxalism, instilled tremendous enthusiasm in the entire audience. A woman with self-respect can keep the nation at ultimate glory for a long time. Devi Ahilyabai always worked in this direction and PM Modi is also working on the same line. He warned Pakistan that if a bullet is fired on our citizen, then we will not be behind to retaliate,' Shukla said. Meanwhile, BJP state chief VD Sharma said that the prime minister gave a great message about women's power during the women's empowerment convention program in the capital city. 'PM Narendra Modi gave a great message about 'Naari Shakti' in the Mahasammelan of women empowerment today... Pakistan was clearly told that bullets would be answered with shells. This is the new India, this is the India of the Prime Minister. He has given a strong message in today's program here,' Sharma told ANI. Additionally, Madhya Pradesh Minister Prahlad Singh Patel said that Prime Minister Modi began working on women's empowerment in 2014 and that women's empowerment is behind every scheme of his government. 'This day is dedicated to Devi Ahilyabai Holkar; her fame and her glory. When we recall history, the work done by Lokmata Ahilyabai for women's empowerment in the 18th century, why can it not be done today? But I say with great pride that PM Modi started the work of women's empowerment from 2014. Women empowerment is behind every scheme of his, the country will have to accept this,' Patel said. Furthermore, Minister Narendra Shivaji Patel said that it was a historic programme held here in the capital city and claimed that, like Ahilyabai Holkar, PM Modi is establishing a similar state. 'When PM Narendra Modi speaks, enthusiasm, excitement, and energy are generated in the country. At today's historic event, two lakh women from Madhya Pradesh participated. PM Modi talked about Operation Sindoor and said that Sindoor symbolises our valour, motivating the whole crowd of women. Under the leadership of PM Modi, the country is developing quickly in all like the state established by Ahilyabai Holkar, a similar state is being established today under PM Modi's leadership,' Patel said. (ANI)
