Today, a gradual transformation is becoming visible as roads, schools, healthcare facilities, electricity, communication networks and livelihood opportunities begin reaching communities that were once difficult to access. Because of violence, insecurity and the presence of left-wing extremism, for years, several remote villages of Chhattisgarh’s Sukma remained isolated from mainstream development, largely.
During the years of violence, residents in several interior villages faced serious difficulties in accessing basic services. Poor road connectivity and limited transport made it difficult to reach schools and healthcare centres. Electricity and mobile connectivity were also unavailable or unreliable in many areas, while the reach of government welfare programmes remained a major challenge. The situation is now changing. Better transport has also made it easier for villagers to travel for education, healthcare and other essential needs.
During his Diwali visit to Bastar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated with security personnel and said that every district in the country was now free from Naxalism , underscoring the government’s claim that the security situation in the region has entered a new phase. Sukma Superintendent of Police, IPS officer Mayank Gujjar, said that the improvement in the security environment has created greater space for administration and development work. The construction of roads and bridges has improved connectivity between remote settlements and larger towns, according to the Sukma police officer.
With increased government presence in previously inaccessible areas, residents are beginning to see new possibilities for education, healthcare and employment.
