New Delhi: At the 11th Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai presented a new vision for a Naxalism-free Bastar. He said the region will emerge as a model of economic revival, employment, education, tourism, and agriculture-led development.

At the meeting held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Sai outlined a comprehensive plan to double tribal family incomes, drive a dairy revolution, expand irrigation across 32,000 hectares, develop tourism as a major industry, and boost investment in AI and semiconductors. He said these efforts are aimed at transforming Chhattisgarh into a developed state in line with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

Sai outlined an ambitious development agenda for Bastar, with the goal of increasing average family incomes to Rs 30,000 per month within three years. To achieve this, the government is strengthening agriculture, animal husbandry, forest produce-based livelihoods, small industries, and welfare schemes. A key initiative is the rapid rollout of the Dairy Model, under which tribal families will receive milch cows and buffaloes. The programme aims to generate sustainable incomes, create jobs for women and youth, and strengthen dairy-related infrastructure.

The state is also launching two major irrigation projects worth over Rs 2,000 crore, expanding irrigation coverage to 32,000 hectares. Improved year-round water availability in the Indravati region is expected to enhance farm productivity. In healthcare, digital health profiles are being created for nearly 36 lakh residents. Around 200 security camps are being transformed into “Seva Dera” centres, providing access to 371 Central and State schemes.

Tourism development is another focus area, with Chitrakote and Sirpur being upgraded as world-class destinations. Bastar will expand water sports, adventure tourism, and jungle safaris, while Sirpur will receive a Global Meditation Centre, museum facilities, and a developed Mahanadi riverfront. Sai highlighted the state’s broader push for investment, technology, and governance reforms. Education Cities in Abujhmad and Jagargunda, PM SHRI schools, smart classrooms, digital services for over 33 lakh farmers, and support for industries and exports under initiatives such as ODOP are expected to further boost employment and economic growth across Chhattisgarh.