Electrification Drive Illuminates Hope in Naxal-Affected Bastar Villages

The Chhattisgarh Government's 'Niyad Nellanar Yojana' is transforming isolated and naxal-hit villages like Regadgatta by introducing electricity and basic amenities. The initiative has brought electricity to 30 houses, marking a significant development in the region marred by years of conflict, with plans to extend these services further.

In a bid to bring about a transformative change in the naxal-affected Bastar region, the Chhattisgarh Government has launched the 'Niyad Nellanar Yojana'. The initiative aims to provide essential facilities like electricity, drinking water, road connectivity, and mobile networks to remote villages under security cover.

A significant milestone was achieved as the state government successfully electrified Regadgatta, a remote village 20 kilometres from Bijapur district headquarters. The Bijapur administration noted that this feat marks the first instance of electrification in the village in many years, attributed to the past disruptions caused by naxal violence.

Bijapur Collector Sambit Mishra expressed his satisfaction with the electrification of 30 houses in Regadgatta, celebrating it as the seventh village electrified under the campaign. The Niyad Nellanar Yojana has so far covered 64 villages in the district, with most relying on solar power due to a lack of grid connections. The ongoing efforts aim to extend electricity to 50 more villages.

Assistant Engineer Yogesh Kumar Dewangan highlighted the challenges faced due to the sensitive nature of the area, but credited improved road infrastructure under the scheme for facilitating electrification. Villagers, including Munna Tati, expressed joy and gratitude for the electrification project, emphasizing its positive impact on education, agriculture, and overall quality of life in Regadgatta.

(With inputs from agencies.)