Mini Setu Kendras To Bring Digital Governance To Core Gadchiroli Residents of remote and once Maoist-affected areas in Gadchiroli, including Binagunda, Bhamragarh, Etapalli, Fulnar, and Gardewada, will soon gain access to government services through newly upgraded centers. The Maharashtra government has approved the transformation of 22 existing service centers in the district into Mini Setu Kendras, also known as Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendras. These centers aim to bring essential government, banking, and digital services closer to rural communities, reducing the need for long-distance travel to obtain certificates, applications, or access public schemes. The initiative includes 13 Dadalora Khidki centers, previously operated with police administration support, and nine Aadi Seva Kendras managed by the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP). Gadchiroli collector Avishyanth Panda highlighted that each center will offer 21 categories of revenue services, rural development initiatives, and Aadhaar-linked facilities. Business correspondents will also provide basic banking and financial services, enabling residents to access these resources without traveling to distant bank branches or government offices. Each Mini Setu Kendra will be staffed with an operator to assist villagers with online applications, certificates, and enrollment in government schemes. The government will provide one-time support for infrastructure, including computers, printers, scanners, and other necessary equipment. Operators will receive a monthly salary of up to Rs 8,000 for a period of one year. The project leverages existing infrastructure to minimize costs and maximize efficiency.#gadchiroli #integrated_tribal_development_project #mini_setu_kendras #avishyanth_panda #dadalora_khidki
Helicopter Meant for Anti-Naxal Operations in Gadchiroli Laid Idle for 17 Months Maharashtra’s government faced criticism for its handling of a helicopter procured for anti-Naxal operations in Gadchiroli, which remained grounded for nearly 17 months after its delivery due to delays in appointing a maintenance agency. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) highlighted this issue in its latest report, revealing that the state’s failure to secure a certified maintenance provider led to significant financial and operational setbacks. The helicopter, an Airbus H-145 (registration VT-GOV), was procured by the Directorate of Aviation in July 2019 for Rs82.78 crore. Delivered on September 18, 2019, the aircraft completed its acceptance test flight on September 25, 2019. However, the Directorate of Aviation failed to finalize a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) agency approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) before the helicopter’s delivery. As a result, the aircraft could not undergo mandatory maintenance and was placed under short-term preservation by the manufacturer from September 26, 2019. The MRO agency, M/s Indamer Aviation Pvt Ltd, was appointed only on July 13, 2020—nearly 10 months after the helicopter’s delivery. By this time, the prolonged lack of maintenance had rendered the aircraft unfit for immediate operations, necessitating a costly return-to-service (RTS) procedure. After obtaining DGCA approval in September 2020, the MRO agency conducted extensive restoration work, including multiple engine ground runs and test flights, which continued until December 1, 2020. The Directorate of Aviation spent Rs2.07 crore on the RTS process.#maharashtra_government #gadchiroli #directorates_of_aviation #cag_report #indamer_airways
96 Tribal Students from Gadchiroli to Meet President Droupadi Murmu Nagpur: A group of 96 tribal students from the remote villages of Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, is set to embark on a six-day educational study tour to Delhi, where they will meet President Droupadi Murmu. The journey, scheduled from June 23 to June 28, marks a significant milestone for the students, many of whom will experience their first visit to a metro city, a flight, and an interaction with the nation’s highest constitutional authority. The initiative, organized jointly by the Integrated Tribal Development Project and Shiksha Bahuuddeshiya Sanstha, aims to broaden the students’ horizons and inspire them through exposure to key institutions and scientific concepts. The students, studying in Classes 7 to 11, will depart from Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport after a meeting with Ayushi Singh, the Tribal Development Department’s additional commissioner. Nine office-bearers of the Sanstha will accompany the group during the trip. A key highlight of the visit is the planned meeting with President Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 25. Organizers noted that securing this appointment required nearly a month of coordination, with Union minister Nitin Gadkari playing a pivotal role in facilitating contact with the President’s office. The itinerary includes visits to IIT Delhi, the National Science Centre, Rajghat, and the Red Fort. Science communicators Neeraj and Rashmi Verma, who have witnessed India’s Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3 lunar missions, will guide the students through sessions designed to foster scientific curiosity, innovation, and leadership.#nitin_gadkari #droupadi_murmu #gadchiroli #integrated_tribal_development_project #shiksha_bahuuddeshiya_sanstha
CS: Surrendered Maoists Will Receive Aid Beyond Cash Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal and Maharashtra Director General of Police Sadanand Date visited the Navjeevan rehabilitation colony in Navegaon, Gadchiroli, on Sunday to address the needs of surrendered Maoists. The visit underscored the state government’s commitment to integrating former Maoist cadres into mainstream society, emphasizing support that extends beyond financial compensation. Aggarwal highlighted the transformation of the district, noting that the 819 Maoists who have surrendered so far represent a shift from conflict to collective rebuilding. “Just months ago, people stood on two opposite sides of the conflict; today they are starting a new life together. This is the great strength of faith in the Indian Constitution,” Aggarwal stated during the event. The ceremony included the distribution of rehabilitation cheques from both central and state governments. Women’s self-help group members received sewing machines, while men were given spray pumps. Attendees also received e-Shram cards, Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, and driving licences. Aggarwal emphasized that Aadhaar enrolment, bank account creation, and voter registration are top priorities to ensure seamless integration. Additionally, the state plans to provide skill development training, admissions to industrial training institutes (ITIs), employment opportunities, and business support to the surrendered Maoists. DGP Sadanand Date reiterated the police’s dedication to aiding the surrendered Maoists within legal frameworks. “Maharashtra Police will give every necessary help to ensure their security, rehabilitation, and inclusion in the development mainstream,” he said.#gadchiroli #rajesh_aggarwal #sadanand_date #navjeevan_rehabilitation_colony #navegaon
Maoist Threat Over, Win Gadchiroli Tribals’ Trust Through Governance: Chief Secretary Nagpur: Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal emphasized the need for enhanced governance in Gadchiroli to rebuild trust among tribal communities, directing officials to prioritize development, public outreach, and effective services. Aggarwal, who also serves as the guardian secretary of Gadchiroli, has been stationed in the district since Saturday, overseeing a comprehensive review of administrative departments. A critical meeting on Sunday brought together senior officials, including Maharashtra DGP Sadanand Date, to discuss the law-and-order situation and the post-Maoist transformation of the region. Aggarwal highlighted the opportunity for Gadchiroli’s transformation over the next decade, urging officials to adopt a people-centric approach. He stressed that tribal communities, as the true owners of forest resources, should see the government and civil administration act as facilitators rather than authorities. “If services are delivered with sensitivity and understanding, the gap between the government and society will narrow further,” he stated. The meeting also addressed the shift from combating Maoist extremism to conventional policing, with DGP Date acknowledging the significant toll of the conflict. Date reviewed three decades of anti-Maoist operations, noting that security forces had dealt a decisive blow to left-wing extremism. He highlighted the human cost, with 244 police personnel and 609 civilians losing their lives during the conflict, calling the end of the Maoist movement a victory for Indian democracy. Date also announced plans to create an elite force from select C-60 commandos, emphasizing advanced training for special operations at state and national levels.#gadchiroli #maharashtra_dgp_sadanand_date #samruddhi_expressway #chief_secretary_rajesh_aggarwal #c_60_commandos
Infant among 3 Dead in ST Crash Near Gadchiroli Three passengers, including a seven-month-old infant, were killed and 33 others injured after a Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus overturned near Gadchiroli on Thursday morning. The accident occurred at a sharp curve near Navegaon-Murkhala, approximately six kilometers from the city. The bus, traveling from Gadchiroli to Umarkhed, crashed through a roadside iron safety barrier and overturned into a field after the driver allegedly lost control of the speeding vehicle. The deceased were identified as Khwaja Shahabuddin (60) of Desaiganj, Laxmibai Durkiwar (55) of Navargaon, and seven-month-old Shivansh Navghare, who succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Several injured passengers, including women and children, were reported to be in critical condition and were transported to Nagpur for specialized medical care. Eyewitnesses described the bus as moving at high speed when the driver failed to navigate the curve, causing the vehicle to break through the barrier. The impact threw passengers against each other, resulting in severe injuries. Locals rushed to the scene immediately after the accident and assisted in rescuing trapped passengers before police and health department teams arrived to conduct relief operations. Among the injured were the driver, Rohit Deshmukh, and conductor Sandeep Pawar, along with several passengers from different parts of Gadchiroli district. Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Gadchiroli MLA Dr. Milind Narote and former MP Dr. Ashok Nete visited the district hospital to inquire about the condition of the injured and directed medical staff to prioritize treatment for critically affected patients.#gadchiroli #msrtc #dr_milind_narote #navegaon_murkhala #dr_ashok_nete
Maharashtra Government Approves Rs40,000 Crore Steel Plant Incentives in Gadchiroli The Maharashtra state government has approved special incentives for 18 industrial projects, including a major steel plant in Gadchiroli, as part of its efforts to boost industrial growth and employment. The decision, cleared by the state cabinet, involves investments totaling Rs2.56 lakh crore, with projections of creating one lakh jobs across the state. Of these, Rs80,000 crore is earmarked for the Vidarbha region, which includes the second-highest investment proposal of Rs40,000 crore for a steel plant by Rashmi Metallurgical Industries in Gadchiroli. The project is expected to generate 22,000 jobs. JSW Steel has also announced plans to invest Rs1 lakh crore in an integrated steel plant in Gadchiroli, further solidifying the district’s role as a hub for heavy industry. The incentive packages, which include state GST rebates, were approved for seven projects in total. These incentives are designed to support the projects as they progress, aligning with the projected timelines and employment targets. In addition to the steel sector, the government approved incentives for other ventures. Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) received clearance for a drone and military robot manufacturing unit in the Mihan-SEZ. Tembo Defence, a small arms manufacturer, will get incentives for its Rs1,000 crore project at Amravati. ACME Cleantech is set to establish a Rs11,400 crore green energy project at Butibori, while Ashok Leyland plans a Rs10,000 crore expansion in Bhandara district. Both ACME and Ashok Leyland are projected to create 7,000 and 1,000 jobs, respectively. Hari OM Pipes Industries has proposed a Rs3,135 crore investment in Gadchiroli for steel pipe manufacturing, promising 800 jobs.#jsw_steel #maharashtra_government #vidarbha #gadchiroli #rashmi_metallurgical_industries
12 Poachers Arrested in Gadchiroli Wildlife Patrol A forest department team in Gadchiroli conducted a jungle patrol in the Alapalli forest range on Sunday evening and detained 12 individuals suspected of poaching. The operation, which followed a tip-off about a group hiding in the forest for illegal hunting activities, resulted in the immediate arrest of all 12 alleged poachers. During the raid, authorities recovered a variety of wildlife body parts, including four Indian giant squirrels, one flying squirrel, one florican, and an owl, along with equipment used for poaching. The arrested individuals are now facing charges under the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. These legal provisions carry severe penalties for wildlife crimes, including imprisonment and fines. The forest department’s action underscores the ongoing efforts to combat poaching in the region, which has been a persistent issue despite conservation initiatives. The recovery of the wildlife specimens highlights the scale of the illegal activity in the area. The Indian giant squirrel, a critically endangered species, and the florican, a vulnerable bird, are particularly at risk due to habitat loss and poaching. The seizure of these animals and the associated tools used for hunting indicates a coordinated effort by the poachers, which has now been disrupted by the forest team’s intervention. The incident also reflects the challenges faced by conservationists in protecting biodiversity in remote forest areas.#gadchiroli #wildlife_protection_act #alapalli_forest_range #indian_forest_act #indian_giant_squirrel
Hidma Eulogy in Pune Hostel Event Sparks Concern Over Urban Naxal Influence on Tribals A Pune-based state social welfare department hostel recently became the center of controversy after students performed a dance to a song eulogizing slain Maoist commander Hidma. The event, part of a multi-day cultural festival, drew attention from authorities, including Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal, who oversees tribal-dominated Gadchiroli district. Jaiswal warned against the influence of "urban naxals" seeking to exploit tribal culture for political propaganda, emphasizing the need to protect "innocent minds" from Maoist narratives. According to sources, five of the students involved in the dance were from Gadchiroli, while one was from Chandrapur. Jaiswal stated that police would counsel the minors to distance them from Maoist influencers, who he claims weaponize tribal traditions to incite unrest. A senior official in the Maharashtra anti-Naxal apparatus confirmed that the event organizers are under police scrutiny. While Gadchiroli has been declared Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)-free, Jaiswal highlighted lingering threats from "destructive forces" attempting to destabilize the region. The incident has reignited discussions about the broader challenge of Maoist influence in rural and tribal areas. Jaiswal, alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has been tasked with addressing the legacy of Maoist activity in Gadchiroli, which was once a hotbed of insurgency. He urged tribal communities to resist "false narratives" that could lead to self-destruction, stressing that the government has enacted legal measures to combat urban naxals.#devendra_fadnavis #gadchiroli #ashish_jaiswal #maoist_commander_hidma #maharashtra_anti_naxal_apparatus
From Red Corridor To Economic Hub, Rs 6500cr Pumped Into 140 Projects In Gadchiroli Nagpur: Once the fulcrum of the Red Corridor with 20 guerrilla formations and the dreaded Company 10 housed in the rebel headquarters of Abujmarh, Gadchiroli is now surging ahead as a vibrant economic corridor with 140 development projects of Rs 6,500 crore kicking off, over and above the mega projects, including a steel hub announced by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. This transformation is powered by the government's massive infrastructure push, which is monitored by district collector Avishyant Panda. These initiatives are rapidly bridging the infrastructure gap that once helped sustain insurgency, with focus on roads, bridges, irrigation, health facilities, and urban amenities. "Roads and bridges are improving connectivity in remote forested areas that were long inaccessible due to security concerns," said an official. The public works department (roads) is executing seven key projects of almost ₹2,100 crore, while the National Highways division is handling eight works valued at almost ₹900 crore. Notable initiatives include the 28km Ghugus to Rajoli road (₹199 crore), the 36.9-km Gadchiroli to Armori stretch (₹498.06 crore), and multiple upgrades on NH-353C and NH-930. Several bridges and culverts have been completed or are advancing steadily, with many receiving Stage-II environmental and forest clearances. "The all-weather roads and sturdy bridges are reducing travel time and enhancing market access for tribal farmers," said a key official from Gadchiroli district administration office. Irrigation projects are transforming the rural economy by bringing water to vast tracts of land previously under Maoist influence.#devendra_fadnavis #gadchiroli #avishyant_panda #national_highways_division #gadchiroli_municipal_council
From Red Corridor To Economic Hub, Rs 6500cr Pumped Into 140 Projects In Gadchiroli Nagpur: Once a stronghold of the Red Corridor with 20 guerrilla formations and the infamous Company 10 rebel headquarters in Abujmarh, Gadchiroli is now transitioning into a dynamic economic corridor. Over 140 development projects worth Rs 6,500 crore have been launched, marking a significant shift from its historical role in insurgency to a hub of infrastructure and growth. The transformation is driven by a state-led infrastructure initiative, overseen by district collector Avishyant Panda, which aims to bridge the gap that once supported Maoist activities. The focus is on improving connectivity, irrigation, healthcare, and urban amenities to uplift the region’s economy and quality of life. The public works department is executing seven major road projects totaling nearly ₹2,100 crore, while the National Highways division is managing eight projects valued at almost ₹900 crore. Key initiatives include the 28km Ghugus to Rajoli road, costing ₹199 crore, and the 36.9km Gadchiroli to Armori stretch, priced at ₹498.06 crore. Upgrades to NH-353C and NH-930 are also underway, alongside the completion of several bridges and culverts. These projects are improving access to remote forested areas that were previously inaccessible due to security concerns. "Roads and bridges are enhancing connectivity, reducing travel time, and boosting market access for tribal farmers," said a Gadchiroli district administration official. Irrigation projects are playing a pivotal role in revitalizing the rural economy by bringing water to land under former Maoist influence. Seven major schemes, totaling over ₹2,000 crore, are being implemented under the minor irrigation division.#national_highways #gadchiroli #red_corridor #avishyant_panda #kotgal_barrage
Once forbidden Maoist zone, Gadchiroli now realty hotbed Nagpur: Once a Maoist hotbed where few dared to tread, Gadchiroli is now witnessing a surge in real estate activity. The district recorded real estate transactions exceeding Rs600 crore in the last fiscal year, with over Rs30 crore collected as stamp duty. Land rates in the interiors have climbed to Rs10-15 lakh per acre, driven by the steel industry’s growing interest. The state government’s land acquisition efforts for industrial projects, including JSW Steel’s proposed facility, have further fueled demand, spurring development even in remote areas. The steel sector’s expansion has transformed Gadchiroli into a preferred destination for investors. Companies like JSW Steel and Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL) are acquiring land, while smaller firms are also entering the market. The demand is fueled by the promise of future development, with investors carving out smaller plots from farmland and selling them on a per-square-foot basis—a practice previously unseen in the region. Stamp duty rates, at 5% for rural areas and 6% for urban zones, have contributed to the transaction value, with the Rs600 crore figure representing a 5% duty rate. The government’s aggressive land acquisition strategy has intensified the real estate boom. Over the past decade, the state offered land parcels at a nominal Re 1 for industrial use in Gadchiroli town, but many buyers failed to develop the sites. Now, with projects like JSW Steel’s world-largest facility underway, the district is experiencing a new wave of investment. The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has acquired over 3,500 hectares across 12 villages for industrial purposes, sparking both economic growth and local resistance.#jsw_steel #gadchiroli #lloyds_metals_and_energy_limited #maharashtra_industrial_development_corporation #mahendra_bramhanwade
Wadsa-Armori Rail Line Set for Commissioning in Mid-May, Boosting Steel Hub in Gadchiroli Nagpur: Gadchiroli, once the epicentre of Maoist activity in Maharashtra, is undergoing a significant transformation as infrastructure projects and development initiatives gain momentum. A key milestone in this shift is the impending commissioning of the Wadsa-Armori rail line, a critical segment of the broader Wadsa-Gadchiroli broad gauge project. The South East Central Railway (SECR) is expected to complete the initial 20km stretch between Wadsa (Desaiganj) and Armori by the end of April or mid-May 2025. This development will drastically reduce travel time from approximately one hour by road to around 30 minutes by rail, offering a safer and more reliable alternative for commuters and freight movement. Divisional Railway Manager Deepak Kumar Gupta of SECR emphasized that while the physical work on the section is complete, the line requires clearance from the railway safety commission and final administrative approvals before it can be officially opened. The project, which has been implemented on a 50:50 cost-sharing basis between the central and state governments, has faced delays due to challenges such as forest clearances, wildlife mitigation measures, and difficult terrain. Land acquisition for the project, covering around 220 hectares, was finalized, allowing construction to proceed at full speed. The Wadsa-Armori rail line is part of a larger 52-56 km project that has become increasingly vital as the steel industry intensifies its investments in Gadchiroli. Officials highlighted that the line will facilitate the efficient movement of raw materials like iron ore and coal, as well as finished steel products, while also supporting the transport of forest produce and agricultural goods.#gadchiroli #deepak_kumar_gupta #south_east_central_railway #wadsa_armori_rail_line #steel_industry
Gadchi-linked Indo-US buyout pips China for Congo’s copper Nagpur: An international corporate buyout with a Gadchiroli connection has emerged as a significant milestone for the Trump administration in the United States, while also offering strategic advantages for India. Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL), which operates an iron ore mine in Gadchiroli, has acquired CHEMAF Group, a copper and cobalt mining company based in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The deal is being celebrated as a major breakthrough, as it establishes a non-Chinese source of critical minerals, particularly cobalt, which is vital for defense and electric vehicle (EV) industries. The acquisition, valued at $250 million, includes the purchase price and is spearheaded by a joint venture between LMEL and the U.S.-based Virtus Mineral Group. This partnership, now operating under the name Virtus Lloyds Minerals Holdings (VLMH), successfully outmaneuvered a Chinese state-owned entity that had also been vying for control of CHEMAF’s operations. CHEMAF’s mining activities are located in the Katanga region, one of the world’s largest reserves for copper and cobalt. Following the acquisition, American Under-Secretary of State Jacob Helberg tweeted on X, emphasizing the significance of the deal: “The U.S. firm Virtus’ acquisition of CHEMAF mines in the DRC is HUGE for America and the people of DRC. Under President Trump’s leadership, the U.S. is back competing in the DRC’s mining sector. This partnership is a linchpin to American economic security.” LMEL’s subsidiary, Lloyds Global Resources FZCO (LGRF), partnered with Virtus Minerals to complete the purchase, securing a 49% stake in CHEMAF. Currently, CHEMAF produces 20,000 tonnes per annum (TPA) of copper cathodes and 4,000 TPA of cobalt.#gadchiroli #lloyds_metals_and_energy_limited #chemaf_group #democratic_republic_of_congo #virtus_mineral_group
Maharashtra’s Last 2 Maoist-Hit Districts Shed Red Tag Ahead Of March 31 Deadline Maharashtra’s last two districts classified as affected by left-wing extremism (LWE) — Gadchiroli and Gondia — have been reclassified from the Red tag to the legacy and thrust (L&T) category by the Union home ministry. This reclassification was confirmed through a mid-March circular issued ahead of the March 31 deadline set by the central government to eliminate Naxalite influence across the country. The L&T category represents the final stage before full normalization, requiring the government to focus on consolidating its position to ensure sustained development and prevent any resurgence of insurgency. The Union home ministry’s decision to upgrade Gadchiroli and Gondia from Red tag to L&T status was influenced by key developments in both districts. In Gadchiroli, the surrender of top Maoist leader Bhupathi in October 2025 played a critical role in the reclassification. This event marked a significant shift in the district’s security dynamics, leading to its removal from the Red tag category. Similarly, Gondia was reclassified as L&T in June 2025, following a period of reduced Maoist activity. The reclassification process is based on the intensity of Maoist activity and involves consultations with the respective state governments. The transition to L&T status carries implications for both security and economic policies. Districts in this category receive tailored security deployments and economic incentives to promote development. Project subsidy consultant Julfesh Shah highlighted that the L&T status includes provisions such as a 100% refund of state GST (SGST) dues. Additionally, mega industries investing in these districts can access incentives beyond the standard allocations.#chhattisgarh #gadchiroli #union_home_ministry #gondia #bhupathi
Nine Chhattisgarh Maoists cross into Maharashtra, surrender in Gadchiroli Nagpur: Nine senior Maoist guerrillas from Chhattisgarh crossed the Indravati river into Maharashtra and surrendered to Gadchiroli police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Tuesday, marking a significant blow to insurgent activity in the Dandakaranya region. The surrender occurred on the final day of the March 31 deadline set by Union home minister Amit Shah under the national policy. The cadres had moved through the forests of Indravati National Park, entering Maharashtra in a coordinated operation before laying down their arms. The police attributed the development to sustained anti-Maoist operations and rehabilitation packages offered by the central and Maharashtra governments. Among the surrendered were three area committee-level guerrillas and six hardcore cadres, collectively carrying a bounty of Rs30 lakh. Two women, Shanti Wadde and Sukki Kunjam, surrendered with an AK-47 rifle and 30 live cartridges. Wadde, who received a Rs6 lakh reward, served as an area committee member in the Indravati local organisational squad. Acting on information from the surrendered cadres, joint teams of Gadchiroli police and CRPF recovered an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 57 live rounds, three walkie-talkies, four batteries, and 20 pen drives from Kummar forest near the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border. Subsequent operations in coordination with Chhattisgarh Police led to further recoveries in the Gundapur area of Indravati National Park, including two 7.62 SLR rifles, a single-shot weapon, and 50 detonators. This surrender follows a similar move by seven Maoist cadres over the previous five days, bringing the recent total to 16 linked to this intelligence input.#maharashtra #chhattisgarh #amit_shah #gadchiroli #central_reserve_police_force
Maharashtra Nears End of Maoist Era as Gadchiroli Marks Historic Milestone Nagpur: Maharashtra is on the cusp of a historic milestone, poised to become free of Maoists, as Gadchiroli — once the epicentre of Left-wing extremism in central India — has recorded no major insurgency since February 2026. The state has seen a total of 794 Maoists surrender under the surrender and rehabilitation policy, with 2025 marking a landmark year that saw a record 112 surrenders. The most high-profile among them was on October 15, 2025, when senior Maoist leader Mallojula Venugopal, alias Bhupati, a member of the Maoist politburo, laid down arms along with 61 associates and 54 weapons in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This single event significantly weakened the organisational backbone of Maoists in the region. Since the beginning of last year, Gadchiroli alone has seen 123 hardened Maoist surrenders, including a recent batch of 11 senior cadres with a collective bounty of ₹68 lakh, comprising divisional committee members and commanders, who gave up arms in March 2026. Gondia district has already been declared free of Maoists. Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police Neelotpal expressed confidence that the district and the state are well on track to meet the Centre’s target of ending Maoist insurgency across the country by March 31. “Since February, we have not recorded any significant Maoist movements in Gadchiroli villages. Only six cadres remain on our radar — five from neighbouring Chhattisgarh and one local from Gadchiroli — currently confined to the Abujmarh along the inter-state border,” SP Neelotpal said. The transformation in Gadchiroli has been dramatic and swift. Till January 1, 2024, the entire district was classified Maoist-hit on police records.#maharashtra #devendra_fadnavis #gadchiroli #neelotpal #mallojula_venugopal
Gadchiroli leads voter mapping drive, Nagpur lags far behind Gadchiroli has emerged as the top-performing district in Maharashtra’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, achieving an impressive 82.16% voter mapping as of March 29. This performance places the tribal district at the forefront of the state’s efforts to update voter data, significantly outpacing the state average of 49.22%. Districts like Hingoli (81.92%), Buldhana (77.32%), Parbhani (73.58%), and Nanded (73.57%) also surpassed the 70% threshold, highlighting a stark contrast with Nagpur’s sluggish progress. Nagpur, meanwhile, ranks among the lowest performers, with only 28.88% voter mapping completed, placing it 33rd out of 36 districts. This lag is particularly pronounced when compared to state averages across key indicators. Nagpur’s BLO verification rate stands at 28.82%, far below the state’s 48.98%, while self-marking by electors is just 18.06%, nearly half of the state average of 32.62%. Progeny marking, which identifies new voters, remains critically low at 0.99%, compared to the state’s 5.29%. The disparity in performance mirrors a broader trend in urban Maharashtra, where districts such as Mumbai Suburban (24.41%), Pune (25.78%), and Thane (27.94%) also struggle to meet the state’s benchmarks. Officials note that Nagpur has achieved high verification consistency, with nearly all mapped electors verified by Booth Level Officers. However, the low participation rates suggest challenges in public engagement and operational efficiency. The state’s voter mapping initiative underscores the growing divide between rural and urban areas in terms of electoral data accuracy. While districts like Gadchiroli demonstrate robust progress, Nagpur’s underperformance highlights systemic issues in urban voter registration.#nagpur #maharashtra #special_intensive_revision #gadchiroli #booth_level_officers
Mathura Tai's 54-Year Struggle: From Custodial Rape to Belated Rehabilitation In the twilight of her life, Mathura Tai, a 70-year-old tribal woman from Chandrapur district, continues to endure the physical and emotional scars of a 1972 custodial rape that sparked a national reckoning over India’s justice system. Her 54-year-long battle for recognition, rehabilitation, and dignity has finally begun to bear fruit, albeit belatedly, as government aid and public pressure converge to address her plight. Yet, her journey remains a poignant reminder of the systemic neglect faced by survivors of sexual violence, particularly those from marginalized communities. Mathura’s ordeal began on March 26, 1972, when two police constables—Head Constable Tukaram and Constable Ganpat—raped her while she was in custody at the Desaiganj police station in Gadchiroli. The incident, which shocked the nation, led to a landmark legal battle. The Bombay High Court initially convicted the officers in 1975, but the Supreme Court overturned the verdict in 1979, citing a lack of visible injuries and questioning whether Mathura had consented. This flawed ruling ignited widespread outrage, prompting protests from women’s groups, lawyers, and activists. The case became a catalyst for legal reform, culminating in the 1983 Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, which strengthened protections for rape survivors and addressed custodial abuse. Despite these legal advancements, Mathura’s personal struggle persisted. For decades, she lived in poverty, her health deteriorating as she faced neglect from both the state and her family. Her sons, who inherited her legacy, initially showed little interest in her well-being, leaving her to fend for herself in a crumbling hut.#maharashtra_government #gadchiroli #chandrapur_district #mathura_tai #desaiganj_police_station
Govt signals bonus for paddy farmers Maharashtra’s government has indicated plans to grant a bonus to paddy farmers, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stating in the state assembly that the initiative is in the final stages of approval. Fadnavis emphasized the government’s positive stance toward the proposal, noting that criteria for eligibility are currently under review. The move aims to alleviate financial strain on farmers, who have faced mounting challenges due to rising input costs, unpredictable weather patterns, and fluctuating market prices. The proposal follows sustained advocacy by former minister Sudhir Mungantiwar, who raised the issue through a calling attention motion. Mungantiwar highlighted the economic distress of paddy cultivators, particularly in districts like Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Bhandara, and Gondia, where farming is heavily reliant on monsoon-dependent conditions and volatile market dynamics. His efforts prompted the government to take the matter seriously, with officials acknowledging the need for targeted support to stabilize farm incomes. While the policy details, including the quantum of support and eligibility criteria, remain under consideration, the announcement is seen as a direct response to Mungantiwar’s persistent demands. Agriculture department officials noted that the bonus could serve as a critical buffer for farmers in key paddy-growing regions of eastern Maharashtra, where monsoon variability and market instability have exacerbated financial pressures. The development aligns with broader national discussions on agricultural support measures, as states grapple with climate uncertainties and cost pressures.#maharashtra_government #devendra_fadnavis #chandrapur #gadchiroli #sudhir_mungantiwar
