IN a landmark moment for Bastar’s changing identity, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Tuesday extended a warm welcome to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who arrived in Chhattisgarh to participate in prestigious 26th Central Zonal Council Meeting held in Jagdalpur for the first time. The high-level meeting, chaired by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah brought Bastar into the national spotlight. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai accorded a traditional and cordial welcome to the visiting Chief Ministers, reflecting Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural heritage and hospitality.

 

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was honoured with a traditional state gamchha on his arrival. Describing the occasion as historic, Chief Minister Sai said the organisation of such a prestigious national-level meeting in Bastar for the first time is a matter of pride for the entire state and a symbol of growing confidence in the region. “Bastar, once challenged by Naxal violence, is today emerging with a new identity based on peace, security and development. The presence of the country’s top leadership and Chief Ministers from different states reflects the changing image of Bastar and the increasing trust associated with the region,” Sai stated. Sai expressed confidence that the Central Zonal Council meeting would further strengthen inter-state coordination and provide fresh impetus to the vision of a developed, secure and self-reliant Bastar.