📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Jebulon
Politics
PM Modi celebrates Diwali with security forces in Bastar, hails anti‑Naxal victory
✍️ India Today
🗓 10 Nov 2026, 03:03 AM
👁 7
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the Diwali festival in Bastar alongside security personnel, declaring the region free from Naxal influence.
New Delhi – On the occasion of Diwali, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bastar in Chhattisgarh to celebrate the festival with army, paramilitary and police personnel deployed in the region. The event was presented as a symbolic affirmation of the government's progress in curbing Naxal insurgency that has plagued the forest‑covered district for decades.
During the ceremony, the Prime Minister addressed the troops, praising their perseverance and noting that sustained security operations have significantly weakened the Maoist network in the area. He highlighted recent successes in dismantling Naxal strongholds and restoring normalcy for local communities.
The celebration included the lighting of traditional lamps, a cultural program featuring local artists, and a brief interaction with villagers who expressed relief at the improved security situation. Officials said the gathering underscored the government's commitment to development and peace in erstwhile conflict zones.
The PM’s visit comes as part of a broader strategy to integrate remote districts into mainstream governance, with plans for infrastructure projects and livelihood schemes slated for the coming months.
Security forces reiterated their readiness to maintain law and order, emphasizing that the fight against Naxalism remains a priority even as the region enjoys a festive atmosphere.
During the ceremony, the Prime Minister addressed the troops, praising their perseverance and noting that sustained security operations have significantly weakened the Maoist network in the area. He highlighted recent successes in dismantling Naxal strongholds and restoring normalcy for local communities.
The celebration included the lighting of traditional lamps, a cultural program featuring local artists, and a brief interaction with villagers who expressed relief at the improved security situation. Officials said the gathering underscored the government's commitment to development and peace in erstwhile conflict zones.
The PM’s visit comes as part of a broader strategy to integrate remote districts into mainstream governance, with plans for infrastructure projects and livelihood schemes slated for the coming months.
Security forces reiterated their readiness to maintain law and order, emphasizing that the fight against Naxalism remains a priority even as the region enjoys a festive atmosphere.