“Peace Is Returning to Bastar”: President Murmu

• President Murmu inaugurates Bastar Pandum 2026 in Jagdalpur
• Says Maoist fear is receding as surrenders increase
• Development reaching villages with roads, schools and electricity
• Urges youth to embrace education and welfare schemes

GG News Bureau
Jagdalpur, 7th Feb: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday inaugurated Bastar Pandum 2026 in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, and said the region is witnessing a return of peace and development after decades of Maoist violence.

Addressing the gathering, the President highlighted the unique cultural ethos of Bastar, saying the people celebrate every phase of life as a festival. “When farmers sow seeds, it is Pandum. When the mango season arrives, it is Pandum. The people of Bastar celebrate every aspect of life,” she said, adding that others can learn from this way of living.

Murmu noted that although Bastar’s traditions and culture have long attracted attention, the region had suffered from Maoist violence for nearly four decades. She said youth, tribal communities and Dalits were the worst affected during this period. However, she added that decisive action by the government has begun to change the situation.

According to the President, many individuals associated with Maoist groups have surrendered and returned to the mainstream. She said the government is ensuring rehabilitation and implementing welfare schemes to help them rebuild their lives. The state government’s Niyad Nellanar Yojana, she said, is playing a major role in empowering villages.

Murmu observed that development is now visible across the Bastar region, with electricity, roads and drinking water reaching remote villages. She also pointed out that schools which had remained shut for years are reopening, with children returning to classrooms.

She appreciated those who had given up violence and urged them to place their trust in the Constitution and democratic institutions. The President emphasised that the welfare of poor, deprived and backward communities remains a top priority, and cited schemes such as PM-JANMAN Yojana and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan as examples of targeted development efforts.

Stressing the importance of education, Murmu said Eklavya Model Residential Schools are being established in tribal areas to provide quality education. She urged parents to prioritise schooling for their children, saying it would shape the future of both Chhattisgarh and the country.

The President also spoke about the rich cultural heritage of the region, including the famed Bastar Dussehra dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari. She called on citizens to embrace development while preserving their traditions, and encouraged the youth to take full advantage of government schemes for their progress and prosperity.