Sukma (Chhattisgarh) [India], January 2 (HBTV): Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma has asserted that development will now reach every village of the state, even in remote Maoist-affected areas like Puvarti village in Sukma district, which recently received its first television.

Speaking to ANI, Sharma said, ‘They (Naxalites) kept the village cut off from the whole world. They do not want electricity, water, roads, Anganwadi, schools, hospitals, or mobile towers to come to the village. Now none of that will happen; everything will be under control, and the Ganga of development will reach every village.’

Puvarti village, located in the Bastar region, is notorious for being home to top Naxalite leaders and heightened Maoist activities. However, the government’s efforts are making a visible impact, with electricity and TV now accessible in the area.

Deputy CM Sharma highlighted several developmental measures being undertaken, including the provision of Aadhaar cards and the opening of bank accounts for the locals. He stated, ‘Today electricity has reached, TV has reached. The children are watching TV, there are ration shops, their Aadhaar cards are being made, and bank accounts are being opened.’

Villagers expressed their happiness with the changes. One local resident of Puvarti remarked, ‘We watch news and movies. Everything is good. Children are happy; they also watch TV. The government has done good (work).’

In a landmark development, Puvarti, a remote village at the southernmost tip of Chhattisgarh, witnessed the arrival of solar-powered televisions for the first time since India’s independence. Residents can now watch national and international news, serials, and local films on Doordarshan.

The Chhattisgarh government has launched the Niyad Nellanar Yojana to promote development and ensure the benefits of welfare schemes reach even the remotest villages. The primary goal of the initiative is 100% implementation of central and state government schemes in these areas.

Through the Chhattisgarh State Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA), solar-powered appliances like lights and fans were distributed to families in Puvarti. Doordarshan TV sets were also installed in Puvarti, Tekalgudiyum, and Silger, with two sets in each village.

The initiative is reducing dependency on conventional electricity while encouraging environmental conservation. By utilizing renewable energy, the government aims to reduce pollution and set an example for sustainable development.

(ANI)