The year 2025 marks a significant milestone in India’s fight against Maoism, particularly in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. On May 20, 2025, the launch of a bus service between Narayanpur and Kutul, piercing the heart of Abujhmad – once an impenetrable Maoist fortress known for its underdevelopment and isolation – stands as a powerful symbol of progress. This historic first, breaking decades of isolation since Independence, is a direct result of the decisive operations and strategic actions against Maoist activity that have systematically dismantled their hold.
This groundbreaking bus service is just one of 17 such remarkable achievements compiled in this report, all undertaken for the very first time since India’s Independence in the Maoist-affected areas of Bastar between 2016 and 2025. These accomplishments underscore the unwavering resolve of the government and security forces to reclaim these territories, integrate them into the national mainstream, and bring development to their long-suffering populace. From infrastructure development to improved connectivity, these initiatives are not just about services; they are about asserting state authority, fostering national integration, and ensuring that the writ of the Indian Republic reaches every corner, no matter how remote or hostile. The tide has truly turned in Bastar, signalling a new era of peace and prosperity.
Tricolour rises in Gompad: A symbol of reclaimed sovereignty in Sukma
On August 15, 2016, a powerful moment of national resurgence unfolded in Gompad village, deep within Sukma’s South Bastar district in Chhattisgarh. For the first time in three decades, the vibrant Tricolour was proudly hoisted, marking an Independence Day celebration that had previously been unimaginable in this former Maoist stronghold.
Gompad, long synonymous with the “Red Terror,” witnessed this historic event thanks to sustained efforts against the Maoist insurgency. The unfurling of the national flag in a village once under the grip of anti-national elements is a resounding declaration of India’s sovereignty reasserted. It signifies the steadfast resolve of our security forces and the government to liberate every inch of our territory from extremist control, bringing these isolated communities back into the national embrace.
Rewali village: Tribal children defy Maoist terror, hoist the national flag for the first time
On August 15, 2017, in a powerful display of national spirit and defiance, tribal children in Rewali village, Dantewada district, Chhattisgarh, proudly celebrated Independence Day by hoisting the Indian national flag in their government-run schools. This historic event marked the first time the Tricolour flew freely in their educational institutions, despite the explicit threats and intimidation from Maoist terrorists who had long sought to suppress such patriotic displays. This act of courage by the youngest citizens underscores the unwavering resolve of the Indian state to reclaim these long-neglected areas and instil a sense of national belonging, systematically pushing back against the forces of anti-national insurgency.
Minpa village reclaims identity: Tricolour soars for the first time since Independence
A truly historic moment unfolded on January 26, 2021, in Minpa village, Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, as the Tricolour was hoisted for the first time since India gained Independence. In a resounding victory for national pride and sovereignty, CRPF jawans, standing shoulder to shoulder with local villagers, performed this momentous flag salute. This act symbolised the reassertion of the Indian state’s authority in a region long plagued by Maoist violence and isolation. The unfurling of the national flag in Minpa stands as a powerful testament to the relentless efforts of our security forces and the government in liberating areas from the clutches of anti-national elements, bringing them firmly into the national mainstream.
Chandameta rises: Tricolour hoisted for the first time in 75 years, reclaiming Bastar from the extremist grip
On August 15, 2022, a truly monumental event unfolded in Chandameta, a village in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region that had long suffered under Maoist influence. For the first time in 75 years since India’s Independence, the Indian National Flag was proudly hoisted, marking the 76th Independence Day with a powerful message of liberation. Security personnel, through their tireless efforts, not only ensured the safety of the area but also actively encouraged villagers to unfurl the Tricolour at their homes.
A swathe of Bastar liberated: Tricolour flies over six hardcore Maoist villages after decades
On August 15, 2023, a profound victory for national sovereignty was celebrated across the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. Seventy-six years after Independence, the Tricolour finally flew for the very first time in six previously hardcore Maoist-affected villages, signalling a monumental shift in the security landscape. This historic achievement was made possible directly by the strategic establishment of new army camps in these challenging terrains. The unfurling of the national flag in these long-isolated and terrorised villages is a clear testament to the Indian government’s unwavering resolve to dismantle the Maoist insurgency, assert state authority, and bring these vital territories back into the absolute national embrace.
Bastar villages hoist national flag after decades of Maoist influence
On August 15, 2023, a wave of national pride swept through the Bastar division of Chhattisgarh, as eight Maoist-affected villages celebrated Independence Day by proudly hoisting the national flag for the first time since India gained Independence. Previously, these communities had only seen the black or red flags of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) on such occasions. This year, however, a vibrant ‘Tiranga Rally’ was also organised with active participation from the villagers, marking a significant shift in the region.
Tricolor hoisted in 600 Maoist-free villages of Bastar
August 15, 2023, marked a turning point for 600 villages in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar division, which have struggled with Maoism for the past four decades. With these villages now declared Maoist-free, residents are celebrating national festivals like Republic Day and Independence Day with great enthusiasm, proudly hoisting the Tricolour. This development marks a significant step toward peace and normalcy in a region long plagued by extremism.
Bastar liberated: Tricolour soars over nine tribal villages, crushing decades of Maoist control
On January 26, 2024, Republic Day witnessed an unprecedented display of national pride in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, as the Tricolour was proudly unfurled for the first time since Independence in nine strategically vital tribal villages (Dumripalnar, Murkrajkonda, Saletong, Duled, Kawadgaon, Mudhvandi, Pariya, Muler, and Palnar) across Bijapur and Sukma districts. These areas, once held captive under the iron fist of Maoist insurgents, now stand as beacons of reclaimed sovereignty.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), relentlessly pushing back the forces of terror, shared powerful visuals on X, showcasing the Republic Day celebration with active participation from the local villagers. This historic moment unequivocally demonstrates the Indian state’s unwavering resolve to dismantle the insurgency, integrate long-isolated communities, and firmly plant the flag of national unity and development in every corner of the motherland. The unfurling of the Tricolour is a clear testament to the nation’s might triumphing over anti-national elements.
Sunrise of the Republic: Tricolour flies after 40 years in reclaimed Bastar strongholds
On January 26, 2024, a true “Sunrise of the Republic” illuminated Bastar, Chhattisgarh, as the Indian Tricolour was proudly hoisted in areas where it had not flown for approximately 40 years. Between December 2023 and January 2024, security forces launched decisive operations, establishing 10 new camps and systematically pushing the Maoists back from their entrenched base areas. The black flags of these anti-national elements were not just removed but forcefully cast aside. With these strategic gains, the reclaimed areas witnessed villagers, alongside security forces, unfurling the national flag in a powerful symbol of liberation and renewed national allegiance. This marks a significant triumph in asserting the state’s authority and integrating these long-isolated regions into the national fabric.
Tricolour planted in Hidma’s en: Security forces assert dominance in Maoist commander’s stronghold
On February 17, 2024, in a resounding display of state power, security forces achieved a monumental breakthrough by hoisting the Tricolour in Poorvarti village, Bastar, Chhattisgarh – a strategic stronghold of the notorious Maoist commander Hidma, who carries a Rs40 lakh bounty. This decisive action, spearheaded by the establishment of a new police camp, marks the first time since Independence that the national flag has flown in Poorvarti. This bold move sends an unequivocal message to extremist elements: no territory is beyond the reach of the Indian state, and the relentless pursuit of peace and order will continue until every inch of our land is free from the grip of terror.
Puvarti joins the nation: Television access achieved for the first time since Independence
On December 14, 2024, Puvarti village in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, marked another significant milestone in its journey towards national integration. For the first time since India’s Independence, the village gained access to television. This achievement, indicative of the expanding reach of state development and the receding influence of Maoism, allowed villagers to watch national and international news, popular serials, and local films on Doordarshan. This newfound connection to the outside world symbolises Puvarti’s embrace of mainstream life, breaking decades of isolation enforced by extremist elements and fostering a stronger bond with the rest of the nation.
Tumalpaad liberated: Tricolour flies for first time, symbolising Bastar’s victory over Maoism
On January 26, 2025, Republic Day witnessed a momentous triumph in Tumalpaad village, Sukma district, Bastar, as the Indian Tricolour was proudly hoisted for the very first time. This historic unfurling is a direct consequence of the relentless and successful anti-Maoist operations currently underway in Bastar. The unwavering commitment of security forces has not only pushed back extremist elements. Still, it has also empowered the local populace, who are now bravely raising their voices against the ‘Red Terror.’ Tumalpaad’s liberation signifies a crucial step in reclaiming India’s sovereign territory and integrating its long-suffering citizens into the national mainstream.
National flag unfurled for the first time in 26 remote Bastar villages since Independence
A truly unprecedented display of national resurgence unfolded on January 26, 2025, as the Indian national flag was proudly unfurled for the first time since Independence in 26 remote villages across Chhattisgarh’s Bastar division. This widespread liberation is the direct result of the strategic establishment of 26 new security camps in these formerly Maoist-dominated regions. Villages including Gundam, Fotkel, Chutwahi, Kondapalli, Jidpalli, Watvagu, Karregatta, Pidiya, Kasturmeta, Maspur, Irkbhatti, Mohandi, Horadi, Garpa, Kachhapal, Kodliyar, Teklagudem, Puvarti, Lakhapal, Polnapad, Tumalpada, Raigudem, Gollakunda, Gomguda, and several others, celebrated Republic Day with a newfound sense of freedom and national identity.
Extensive security arrangements, executed with precision by units including the DRG, Bastar Fighters, STF, CAF, CRPF, CoBRA, SSB, ITBP, BSF, and local police, ensured the smooth and peaceful conduct of these events. This widespread hoisting of the Tricolour is a powerful testament to the state’s unwavering resolve to crush the insurgency, secure its borders, and bring every remote corner of the nation into the national mainstream.
Chilkapalli Illuminated: Decades of darkness end as Bijapur village electrified for the first time
On January 27, 2025, a new dawn broke over Chilkapalli village in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district, as it was electrified for the very first time. This momentous achievement, realised under the Chhattisgarh government’s ‘Niyad Nellanar’ Yojana, directly addresses decades of neglect and the deliberate suppression of development by Maoist forces. The arrival of electricity in Chilkapalli is not merely an infrastructural upgrade; it symbolises the expanding reach of the state and the assertion of national progress into areas previously kept isolated by extremist elements, firmly integrating them into the mainstream.
Chunchuna gets pure water: Jal Jeevan Mission brings life-saving access to Maoist-affected village
On February 02, 2025, a significant victory for human dignity and state welfare was achieved in Chunchuna village, a Maoist-affected area in Chhattisgarh’s Balrampur district. For the first time, this community gained access to clean drinking water under the impactful Jal Jeevan Mission. This crucial initiative directly benefited approximately 100 households, providing them with clean and adequate water—a fundamental right long denied by the chaos of extremism. The delivery of such essential services underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to its citizens, even in challenging territories, pushing back the influence of those who thrive on deprivation and isolation.
Kerlapenda votes: Sukma village exercises democratic rights for the first time since Independence
A profound moment for Indian democracy unfolded on February 24, 2025, in Kerlapenda village, Sukma district, Chhattisgarh. For the first time since Independence, the villagers of Kerlapenda exercised their fundamental democratic right by casting their ballots in the Panchayat polls. Visuals captured the powerful image of villagers waiting peacefully in queues, surrounded by tight security, a testament to the state’s resolve to ensure free and fair participation even in formerly Maoist-dominated zones. This act of voting in Kerlapenda symbolises the triumph of constitutional governance over extremist coercion, firmly re-establishing democratic principles in areas where anti-national elements once sought to suppress the will of the people.
Timenar electrified: 77 years of darkness ended, asserting state reach in former LWE zone
On March 23, 2025, a new era dawned in Timenar village, Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, as electricity was connected to 53 households for the first time since India’s independence. This long-awaited electrification, achieved under the Chief Minister’s Manjra-Tola Electrification Scheme, directly impacts a village that was once deeply affected by Left-Wing Extremism (LWE). For 77 years, Timenar, an extension of the Bechapal village panchayat in the Bhairamgarh block, remained in darkness, a stark symbol of extremist-enforced isolation. This initiative powerfully demonstrates the state’s unwavering commitment to extending development and basic amenities into every corner, reclaiming ground from those who sought to deny progress and ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
Abujhmad breakthrough: Bus service launches for the first time, piercing decades of Maoist isolation
On May 20, 2025, the formidable Maoist stronghold of Abujhmad witnessed a historic first: the launch of a bus service between Narayanpur and Kutul, marking the first such connectivity since India’s Independence. For decades, the dense forests and rugged terrains of Abujhmad served as a sanctuary for extremists, perpetuating underdevelopment and isolation. Now, as the landscape shifts both literally and figuratively, people are embracing the path to progress. This vital new service, operated by Bastar Travels, traverses through formerly inaccessible villages, including Kundla, Kohkameta, Irkbhatti, Kachcha Pal, Kasturmeta, and Mohndi, before reaching Kutul. This achievement is a clear testament to the relentless and successful operations against Maoist activity, decisively opening up previously impenetrable areas and asserting the state’s reach into the heart of what was once a bastion of anti-national elements.
The relentless and decisive operations against Maoist activity have undeniably ushered in a new era for Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region. What were once isolated bastions of anti-national extremism have systematically been reclaimed, witnessing a series of historic firsts since Independence. From the proud hoisting of the Tricolour after decades of suppression, symbolising the reassertion of national sovereignty in villages like Gompad, Minpa, and countless others, to the unprecedented arrival of basic amenities like electricity, clean drinking water, and even television access in long-forgotten communities, these changes mark a profound triumph. The launch of bus services, breaking decades of isolation in areas like Abujhmad, and the courageous participation of villagers in democratic processes like voting for the very first time all underscore a singular truth: the unwavering resolve of the Indian state has effectively pushed back the forces of terror, dismantling their grip and firmly integrating these vital territories and their resilient people into the national mainstream. Bastar, once a symbol of Maoist dominance, is now a testament to the power of sustained action and the enduring spirit of the Indian Republic.
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