Once known for being a Naxal-affected area, the Bastar region in Chhattisgarh is emerging as a hub of investment and opportunity. Recent reports indicate a significant surge in investment, with proposals reaching ₹967 crore. This influx of capital promises to generate over 2,100 jobs across various sectors, signaling a positive shift towards economic development and a return to normalcy in the region.
The transformation is being propelled by both public and private sector initiatives. NMDC (National Mineral Development Corporation) is leading the charge with an investment of ₹43,000 crore. Private capital is also flowing into the region, with over ₹1,000 crore earmarked for healthcare, food processing, MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises), and hospitality. This combined investment is projected to make Bastar one of Chhattisgarh's fastest-growing industrial and socio-economic hubs.
Several key sectors are attracting significant attention from investors. Tourism, healthcare, and warehousing are witnessing considerable interest. A notable development is the establishment of a 350-bed private multi-specialty hospital and medical college in Jagdalpur, marking a first for the region. This ₹550 crore investment will not only enhance healthcare services but also create opportunities for medical education and employment for local youth. Additional projects, including a ₹33 crore multi-specialty hospital and a 200-bed medical institute, are also in the pipeline.
Connectivity is crucial to Bastar's development, and significant investments are being made to improve the region's infrastructure. Railway projects worth ₹5,200 crore, including the Raoghat–Jagdalpur line and the doubling of the KK rail line, are expected to boost trade, tourism, and security operations. Road projects totaling ₹2,300 crore will connect all seven districts of Bastar, with new routes planned through Abujhmad and Dantewada's Barsur, extending to Bijapur. These connectivity projects will not only accelerate development delivery but also weaken insurgent networks.
The Chhattisgarh government's Industrial Policy 2024–30 is playing a vital role in attracting investment to Bastar. The policy prioritizes sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agro-processing, aerospace, IT, and defense, offering unprecedented incentives, especially for investors in Bastar's Group-3 blocks. Additional subsidies are available for SC/ST entrepreneurs and families impacted by extremism. Furthermore, firms employing surrendered Naxals will receive a 40% wage subsidy for up to five years. Tourism has been granted industry status, with subsidies of up to 45% for hotels, eco-tourism, wellness centers, adventure sports, and sports facilities.
In addition to infrastructure development and industrial incentives, skill development initiatives are also gaining momentum. Under the Mukhyamantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, over 90,000 youths have been trained, with a significant number securing employment. In 2024–25 alone, more than 3,000 youths are being trained in IT, automotive, construction, and renewable energy sectors. Skill Development Centres are being established across all 32 blocks of Bastar to prepare local youth for new opportunities.
The state government is committed to eradicating Naxalism from Bastar by March 2026. Since December 2023, security forces have intensified operations, resulting in the killing of 453 Naxals, the arrest of 1,611, and the surrender of 1,636. Over 65 new security camps have been established, strengthening civilian confidence in governance. Furthermore, over 15,000 houses under the PM Awas Yojana have been sanctioned for surrendered cadres and conflict-affected families. A new rehabilitation policy for surrendered Naxals, higher tendu leaf rates, and extensive skill development are also contributing to the region's progress towards peace and prosperity.
