On Independence Day, PM Narendra Modi Welcomes a New Dawn in Bastar – No Longer Known for Terror, But for Sports
Raipur, August 15, 2025 – On the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, addressing the nation from the Red Fort, made special mention of Chhattisgarh’s Bastar. He said that there was a time when the name Bastar immediately evoked memories of Naxalism and violence, but today that picture has completely changed.
PM Shri Narendra Modi proudly stated that today, the youth of Bastar are taking to the sports field instead of picking up guns. Events like the Bastar Olympics have become a vibrant symbol of the energy, talent, and enthusiasm of the youth. He described this historic transformation as the result of combined efforts in security, development, and people’s participation.
PM Shri Narendra Modi said that there was a time when many parts of the country faced the serious problem of Naxalism. The atmosphere of violence and fear had gripped the pace of development for decades, bringing progress to a standstill. He said that this situation has now completely changed — Naxalism today is confined to only a few districts in the country. The Prime Minister said that in the past 11 years, Naxalism has reduced from more than 125 districts to just 20 districts. He further said that today, in Bastar, new opportunities in sports, education, tourism, and employment are continuously increasing.
PM Shri Narendra Modi expressed confidence that this new identity of Bastar will become a source of pride and inspiration for future generations, and that the region will continue to move forward on the path of peace, progress, and glory.
