Shah noted that Bastar, once gripped by fear due to Naxal violence, today stands as a symbol of cultural confidence. Bastar Pandum 2026 witnessed competitions across 12 categories, including tribal cuisine, folk songs, dances, drama, attire, traditions, and forest-based medicinal knowledge.
He credited the Chhattisgarh government for expanding the festival from seven categories in earlier editions to twelve this year, allowing broader participation from seven districts, 1,885 gram panchayats, and 32 block headquarters.
Global Recognition for Bastar’s Tribal Heritage
Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Shah said the Centre is committed to giving global recognition to Bastar’s tribal dances, arts, and traditions. He described Bastar’s culture as unmatched among tribal regions worldwide and said it must be preserved for future generations.
Shah also referred to national honours conferred on tribal achievers from the region, stating that Padma awards to artists, educators, and social workers from Bastar have brought national recognition to its talent.
Tribal Pride and Historical Recognition
The Home Minister said the declaration of Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary as Tribal Pride Day and his 150th birth anniversary as the Year of Tribal Pride reflects the Modi government’s respect for tribal contributions to India’s history.
He added that initiatives such as the ₹200-crore Tribal Museum aim to preserve the legacy of tribal leaders who played a role in India’s freedom struggle.
Firm Stand on Naxalism, Focus on Rehabilitation
Shah reiterated that the fight against Naxalism is rooted in protecting tribal farmers, women, and children. He appealed to remaining Naxalites to surrender, assuring dignified rehabilitation under state and central schemes.
At the same time, he issued a firm warning that any use of weapons would be met with decisive action, stressing that violence against villages, schools, and infrastructure would not be tolerated.
Development Roadmap for Bastar
Outlining the government’s development agenda, Shah said Bastar is set to become the most developed tribal region in the country within the next five years. He highlighted reopening of schools closed for decades, expansion of healthcare facilities, installation of mobile towers, and improved road connectivity.
He also announced that a new industrial area and auto gig hub spread across 118 acres will generate employment for tribal youth, while new tourism initiatives such as homestays, adventure tourism, and cultural circuits will boost livelihoods.
Infrastructure, Irrigation and Employment Push
The Home Minister said work has begun on the ₹3,500-crore Raoghat–Jagdalpur rail project, alongside river-linking efforts and a new irrigation project on the Indravati River. Vocational training is being provided to over 90,000 youths to enhance employability.
He added that Bastar’s transformation is visible in everyday life, with cultural performances returning to villages and the national flag being hoisted in areas where it had not flown for decades.