JAGDALPUR,INDIA: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted Bastar’s transformation from a region plagued by Maoist violence to one illuminated by development initiatives.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected officials of the Bastar District Journalist Association, the Chief Minister expressed optimism about the region's future, emphasizing the role of journalism in shaping Bastar's evolving identity.

“This New Year, as I read the headlines, I noticed Bastar featured prominently—not for Maoist violence, but for the progress and development that has reached the region. The identity of Bastar is changing,” said Sai.

He praised journalists for their dedication to reporting the expectations, challenges, and concerns of the people to the government and administration, despite operating in a complex environment.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao underscored the responsibility of journalists to uphold the ideals of democracy by reporting the government’s achievements and identifying areas for improvement. Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap lauded the journalists of Bastar for setting new standards in journalism.

The ceremony also saw the Chief Minister administering the oath of office to the newly elected officials of the Bastar District Journalist Association. He congratulated them on their new responsibilities and extended his best wishes for the New Year.

The event, which featured a welcome address by the Association President Manish Gupta.