For the first time in decades, 47 villages across Chhattisgarh’s Bastar division will celebrate Republic Day by hoisting the national flag on January 26, marking a powerful symbol of peace and democratic revival in regions once deeply affected by Maoist violence.
From Fear to Freedom
These villages, located in the districts of Bijapur, Narayanpur, and Sukma, were for decades under the shadow of left-wing extremism. In many of them, observing national festivals was unthinkable due to fear and insecurity. The upcoming Republic Day celebrations represent not just an event, but a historic shift in ground reality.
Security and Governance Drive Change
The transformation has been driven by a coordinated effort of the Central and State governments, continuous operations by security forces, and growing cooperation from local communities. Over the past two years, 59 new security camps have been established in sensitive areas, ensuring administrative reach and safety in remote villages.
As a result, governance has gradually returned to areas once cut off from the mainstream.
Growing Momentum: More Villages Join In
In 2025, Republic Day was celebrated for the first time in 53 villages of Bastar. This year, 47 additional villages are joining this democratic tradition.
Bijapur district villages such as Pujarikanker, Gunjeperti, Bhimaram, Kasturipadu, Tadpala Hills, Ulur, and Bellanar will see the Tricolour raised for the first time.
In Narayanpur, villages including Edjum, Idvaya, Aader, Kudmel, Kodenar, Mandoda, and Wadapenda are preparing for their first-ever Republic Day celebrations.
Sukma district villages like Gogunda, Nagararam, Banjalwahi, Veeragangrel, and Paliguda will also witness this historic moment.
Development Reaches the Last Mile
With more than 100 active security camps across Bastar, confidence among residents has increased significantly. This has opened doors for development projects, including:
Road connectivity
Schools and Anganwadi centres
Health services
Mobile network expansion
Banking and financial services
The recent reopening of banking facilities in Jagargunda, once a highly affected area, stands as a strong example of normalcy returning.
People Take the Lead
Perhaps the most encouraging sign is the active participation of villagers themselves. In places where national celebrations were once banned, residents are now voluntarily organizing flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs.
Government’s Vision for Bastar
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has stated that regions once paralysed by violence are now moving steadily toward development under good governance. He emphasized that Bastar is being integrated into the state’s growth journey.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Chhattisgarh government aims to free Bastar from the fear of Maoism and build a future based on trust, peace, and progress.
When the Tricolour rises in these 47 villages on Republic Day 2026, it will stand as a strong message of victory for democracy, symbolising hope, stability, and a new chapter for Bastar.
