SUKMA,INDIA: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday said the cancer of Maoism needs to be treated. He highlighted the progress in the battle against Maoism, stating that security forces have eliminated over 230 Maoists in the past year, weakening their grip on the region.

He was addressing a ceremony marking the foundation laying for various development projects in Sukma district.

The Chief Minister praised the resilience of Sukma, once ravaged by Maoist violence, and discussed the rapid implementation of development initiatives over the past year. He announced the inauguration and Bhoomi Pujan of 137 works worth Rs. 205 crore, including an Rs. 83 crore water supply scheme for Sukma Municipality and an Rs. 14 crore road project from Keralapal to Pongabhejji. Additionally, a sports complex worth Rs. 11 crore will be built to improve local infrastructure.

Emphasizing the role of security in development, Sai explained that expanded security networks and camps have confined Maoists to limited areas. He also shared success stories of villages once controlled by Maoists. For instance, Salatong village, after 78 years, has gained electricity, transforming lives and educational opportunities.

In his address, the Chief Minister outlined various welfare initiatives. He highlighted the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, which provides Rs. 1,000 per month to over 52,000 mothers in Sukma. He also shared details about the increase in the tendu leaf collection rate, benefiting over 63,000 locals with a payment of Rs. 77 crore.

Sukma's residents recently participated in the Bastar Olympics, praised by Prime Minister Modi in his Mann Ki Baat program. The Chief Minister expressed the government's commitment to eradicating corruption and unveiled a coffee table book titled “Mawa Sukma – Badalta Sukma” to showcase the district’s transformation.

Additionally, two MoUs were signed for skill development and waste management. The district also launched a new brand, “Akanksha,” for marketing products from women’s self-help groups. Chief Minister Sai also presented certificates and job appointments to various individuals, including beneficiaries of the Naxal Rehabilitation Policy.