Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted his government's efforts to transform Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)-affected tribal regions through a combination of development initiatives and security measures, while criticising previous Congress-led governments for failing to effectively tackle Maoist violence.
Speaking during a special programme on Republic TV, Modi said India has emerged as a dependable global power, attributing the country's progress to a governance model centred on the principle of “Nation First”.
The Prime Minister described the fight against Left-Wing Extremism as one of the key achievements of his administration, stating that tribal regions once affected by Maoist influence had long suffered from neglect, insecurity and a lack of basic infrastructure.
He said that even in the 21st century, several villages remained inaccessible to government officials and vehicles because of Maoist activity.
Drawing a comparison with the period between 2004 and 2014 under the Congress-led UPA government, Modi said more than 17,000 incidents of Maoist violence and over 7,000 deaths were recorded during that decade.
He alleged that despite the seriousness of the issue, the then government failed to take decisive action.
“When these people were in power and Left-Wing Extremism was rampant, they frequently invoked the Constitution but lacked the determination to eliminate the problem,” the Prime Minister said.
Modi asserted that his government's sustained and multi-dimensional strategy, combining security operations with development programmes, has significantly weakened Maoist influence.
“Today, the entire country can see that Naxalism will be eradicated,” he said.
Highlighting infrastructure initiatives, he said more than 12,000 kilometres of roads have been constructed in LWE-affected regions over the past 12 years.
He added that extensive security arrangements were required during these projects, with around 25 workers often protected by nearly 200 security personnel at construction sites.
The Prime Minister also said that about 45,000 mobile towers have been installed to improve connectivity in remote areas.
According to him, the government has opened over 1,800 new bank branches, appointed nearly 75,000 banking correspondents and established more than 6,000 post offices in affected districts.
These measures, he said, have helped bring government services closer to residents in previously isolated regions.
Modi also referred to welfare initiatives, noting that many people who were earlier excluded from government schemes have now received ration cards and access to essential services.
He highlighted the success of the Bastar Olympics, saying over 1.5 million young people participated in its inaugural edition, while around 400,000 took part in the second edition.
The event, he said, symbolises a transition towards normalcy, optimism and greater youth engagement in areas once regarded as Maoist strongholds.
The Prime Minister reiterated that every major initiative undertaken by his government has been guided by the “Nation First” philosophy.
He said programmes such as Make in India and the emphasis on purchasing domestically manufactured products have gained momentum because of a stronger national image and a shared commitment to economic growth.
Recalling a recent visit to France, Modi said he and President Emmanuel Macron visited stalls operated by widows and orphans that showcased innovative Indian initiatives receiving international recognition.
Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive India through sustained development and effective governance.
He said the transformation of tribal regions affected by Left-Wing Extremism demonstrates the government's determination to eliminate the remaining influence of Maoist groups through a balanced approach that combines security with long-term socio-economic development.