Investors Meet Attracts Rs 6,000 Crore Proposals for Chhattisgarh
Steel and tourism projects to create 3,000 jobs as state pushes for growth
Chhattisgarh government is promoting smaller industries, tourism, and agro-based businesses in Bastar, focusing on tribal welfare and avoiding displacement. With declining Maoist violence and improved connectivity, the region is attracting significant investment, aiming for a turnaround through sustainable development and hospitality projects.
28 Maoists with 89 lakh bounty surrender in Chhattisgarhs Narayanpur
Nineteen of 28 cadres are women; three rifles surrendered
28 Maoists including 19 women cadres surrender in Chhattisgarhs Narayanpur
RAIPUR: A total of 28 cadres, including 19 women, of the banned outfit CPI (Maoist) surrendered under the initiative Poona Margham: From Rehabilitation to Reintegration in Narayanpur district, about 350 km south of Raipur, on Tuesday. They were carrying a cumulative reward of 89 lakh, Bastar police said. With this, as many as 287 Maoist cadres in Narayanpur have abandoned the violent path and joined the mainstream this year. Three Maoist cadres among the 28 formally handed over their weapons, a self-loading rifle, an INSAS assault rifle, and a .303 rifle, to the security forces. The rehabilitation of 28 Maoist cadres in Narayanpur reflects that the end of the violent and anti-people ideology is now near. The Maoists are placing their trust in the Poona Margham initiative and choosing the path of peace, dignity, and sustainable progress, said Sundarraj Pattlingam, Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, who attended the occasion in the district. In the last 50 days, around 515 Red rebels allegedly surrendered in the Bastar division, which incorporates seven Maoist-affected districts in south Chhattisgarh. The remaining Maoist cadres, including Politburo Member Devji, Central Committee Member Ramder, Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC) Member Pappa Rao, Deva (Barse Deva), and others, have no option left except to give up violence and join the mainstream, the IG added. Official legal procedures are being carried out for the rehabilitation and reintegration of all 28 cadres into society. Poona Margham has turned into a significant step towards lasting peace and positive transformation in the Bastar region. The rehabilitation is the result of the sustained, coordinated, and determined efforts of the local community, administration, police, and security forces of Narayanpur district, officials said. Among those who surrendered were a Divisional Committee Member (Maad), members of the military wing PLGA company, Area Committee Members, technical team members, military platoon members, and Local Organising Squad members. Since the BJP came to power in December 2023 in Chhattisgarh, around 2,300 Maoists have allegedly surrendered in the state.
Investor Connect Meet: Chhattisgarh secures Rs 6,826.25 crore investment proposal in Steel, Tourism
RAIPUR: The state has received investment proposals of over Rs 6,321 crore in industries and Rs 505 crore in tourism sector and is expected to generate employment for over 3,000 people. During the event, Invitation to Invest letters were handed over to all participating companies by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai to enable them to begin work promptly. Addressing the investors, CM Sai said that Bastar is witnessing a remarkable turnaround, with Maoist violence declining and improvements in roads, internet connectivity, and security. Bastar is fast emerging as a new hub for both investment and tourism, with the government targeting a completely Naxal-free Bastar by March 26, 2026, the CM said and further highlighted that Chhattisgarh is among Indias leading power-producing states and recently received investment proposals worth over Rs 3.5 lakh crore at the Energy Summit, with work commencing on several projects. The biggest investment of Rs 3,769 crore in Delhi came from Green Energy Innovation Pvt. Ltd. for setting up a 50 MW waste-to-energy plant that will generate electricity from waste. The states industrial policyoffering capital and interest subsidies, electricity duty exemptions, stamp duty concessions, and customised packages for large investmentshas been cited to be one of the most modern and investor-centric in the country. With the above concessions, the state has received investment proposals worth more than Rs 7.90 lakh crore since the new policy came into force, reflecting growing investor trust. Emphasising logistics advantages, the Chief Minister said Chhattisgarhs central location strengthens supply chains, with industrial corridors, enhanced highways, expanding airport connectivity, and an improved rail network making the state an ideal destination for manufacturing. The state also has vast solar potential due to its geographic location on the Tropic of Cancer. In line with Indias 2070 net-zero target, Chhattisgarh is promoting green steel, green energy, and renewable energy sectors, supported by attractive incentives. Senior state officials including chief secretary Vikas Sheel, principal secretary to the CM Subodh Singh, secretary (tourism) Rohit Yadav, commerce and industry secretary Rajat Kumar were present during the event.
28 Naxalites surrender in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur; 22 of them carry Rs 89 lakh collective bounty
Twenty-eight Naxalites, including 19 women and several with significant bounties, surrendered in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district. Impressed by state government schemes and rehabilitation policies, these cadres have chosen the path of peace and social reintegration. This surrender signifies a potential decline in Maoist ideology and a growing faith in peaceful alternatives.
JK Lakshmi Cement to invest Rs 1,816 cr to expand production capacity in Chhattisgarh
JK Lakshmi Cement announced a significant Rs 1,816 crore investment to expand its manufacturing operations in Chhattisgarh. The company plans to increase clinker production by 2.31 MTPA and cement grinding capacity by 1.2 MTPA. This expansion aims to bolster its presence in the growing markets of Eastern and Central India, aligning with its goal of reaching 30 MTPA capacity.
Chhattisgarh: Teacher Hangs 5-Year-Old From Tree To Teach Him Discipline, Probe Ordered
A show-cause notice was issued to the school management,
Major BLOW to Maoists after killing of commander Madvi Hidma, 15 surrender in Sukhma
The killing of the most-wanted Maoist commander Madvi Hidma on the Andhra-Chhattisgarh border has triggered a wave of desertions inside the outlawed CPI (Maoist), with fifteen active cadres carrying a combined bounty of nearly fifty lakh rupees laying down arms in Sukma district on Monday.
14-Year-Old Girl Found Dead In Chhattisgarh School; Principal Accused Of Sexual Abuse
A 14-year-old girl in Jashpur was found dead in her school hostel, leaving a note accusing the principal of sexual harassment.
Chhattisgarh NEET PG counselling 2025 registrations are postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, with a new schedule to be announced soon on cgdme.admissions.nic.in. This process is for MD, MS, and diploma admissions. Applicants should prepare for online registration, fee payment of 2,000 (general) or 10,000 (NRI), and a refundable security deposit. Essential documents are also listed.
Modi to chair DGP meet, AI in probe, white-collar terror modules top agenda
NEW DELHI: White-collar terror modules, new patterns of radicalisation and the push to use AI to counter crime and terror will form the core of discussions at the upcoming DGP/IGP Conference, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior officials said on Monday. The conference, organised annually by the Intelligence Bureau in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, brings the countrys top police leadership and the PM and home minister to Nava Raipur, Chhattisgarh, from November 28 to 30. Top officers heading law enforcement, intelligence and investigative bodies are preparing detailed notes on white-collar terror modules and rising radicalisation trends. The November 10 blast in Delhi, which killed 13 people, has pushed the issue back into focus. The emergence of educated operatives has unsettled agencies, with one senior officer saying the involvement of doctors in the Delhi attack and plots to strike across India through armed drones and rockets has left all the police bodies in awe. Sources said the deaths of nine police personnel and injuries to 32 others in Jammu and Kashmir caused by mishandling explosives and the lack of a uniform national protocol have highlighted the urgent need for a proper pan-India standard operating procedure. A senior officer said the changing geopolitical climate around India will be another area of deep discussion. whether Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Afghanistan, the issue of radicals have become a major issue, he said, adding that the platform is expected to host a lot of deliberations pertaining to new challenges the country is facing. The agenda will also cover Naxalism, insurgency in the Northeast, the influx of foreign nationals and rising cybercrime, particularly digital arrests. the use of artificial intelligence to counter law enforcement issues will also be part of the discussion, said an officer. He added that the PM will review the year-long performance and achievements of all law enforcement agencies.
Dec 14 rally against vote theft a pure Congress show
NEW DELHI: INDIA bloc constituents will not take part in the December 14 rally being organised by the Congress to protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI)s alleged vote theft. Party leaders insist that it will be a purely Congress affair and the decision to go solo was firmed up at the AICC review meeting early last week. A senior Congress leader told this newspaper that the rally at Ramlila Maidan would be completely a Congress show aimed at conveying that the party has consistently been at the forefront of exposing irregularities in the electoral process. We have been campaigning on this issue for months and has collected five crore signatures from across the country against vote chori. The party has invested its organisational strength on the matter. This protest is specifically our initiative, the leader said, adding that the party is expecting a huge turnout driven by state units that have been asked to mobilise workers from constituencies where alleged irregularities have surfaced. According to sources, the decision was finalised during the AICC review meeting chaired by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge with key office-bearers from 12 states and Union Territories (UT), where the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls is underway. The meeting was attended by former party president Rahul Gandhi, AICC general secretaries, state unit chiefs, Congress Legislature Party leaders and secretaries of 12 states and UTs where the SIR is underway. The states and UTs are Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. Among these, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and West Bengal will go to polls in 2026. Phase 2 of the SIR exercise began on November 4 and will continue till December 4. The party has alleged that the EC is now a blatantly partisan player that is completely destroying the very concept of a level-playing field for all political parties. After the EC rolled out the second phase of the SIR on October 27, opposition-ruled states Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Kerala have escalated their objections to the ECs move by seeking legal options. Despite being a key constituent of the INDIA bloc and a primary opposition party, the Congress had not convened a joint meeting or crafted a coordinated strategy with its alliance partners on the SIR issue until now. On Sunday, Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the EC, linking the ongoing SIR directly to the deaths of 16 Booth Level Officers (BLOs) over nearly three weeks. Gandhi alleged that the ECs rushed, paperwork-heavy process is a deliberate ploy to harass citizens and enable voter fraud. Decision finalised during AICC review meeting According to sources, the decision was finalised during the AICC review meeting chaired by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge with key office-bearers from 12 states and Union Territories (UT). The meeting was attended by former party president Rahul Gandhi, AICC general secretaries, state unit chiefs, Congress Legislature Party leaders and secretaries of 12 states and UTs where the SIR is underway.
Halt ops, give us 3-mth window: Maoists to govt
RAIPUR: The Maharashtra-Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh (MMC) Special Zonal Committee of the banned CPI (Maoist) has sought time until February 15, 2026, to arrive at a collective decision on surrendering arms and accepting the governments rehabilitation package. The MMC committee operates in the dense tri-junction forest region of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh a strategically vital corridor used by Maoist cadres to move between different areas of the Dandakaranya Special Zone. In a signed press release issued in the name of Anant, spokesperson of the MMC Special Zonal Committee, the outfit addressed Chief Ministers of the three states Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra), Vishnu Deo Sai (Chhattisgarh) and Mohan Yadav (Madhya Pradesh) requesting a halt to anti-Maoist operations. Most wanted Maoist leader Madvi Hidma killed 12 days ahead of Amit Shah's deadline The letter released to the media claimed that the proposal has the approval of Politburo member Sonu Dada and Central Committee members Satish and Chandranna, all of whom have reportedly renounced armed struggle and surrendered. Acknowledging the lack of secure and rapid communication channels within the underground network, the statement said: Since we do not have a fast mechanism to contact one another, the requested period till February 15, 2026, is required. This is well within the March 31, 2026, deadline set by the government. 'Lay down arms...': Surrendered Maoist leader Bhupathi appeals to active members in police-released video Reacting to the development, Bastar Range Inspector General of Police P Sundarraj said, The remaining Maoist cadres and their depleted leadership now have no option except to shun violence and join the social mainstream. Such a press note has emerged when the organisation has crumbled... They are now leaderless, directionless and demoralised. As per directives of governments and desire of the native population, troops are committed to bring an end to the left-wing extremism as early as possible. Request to convey message on radio Maoist leader Anant requested that his message be run on radio to ensure it reaches cadres soon. Allow us to meet representatives and journalists, so that we can declare a date on laying down arms, he said.
Chhattisgarh school girl ends her life after accusing principal of sexual harassment
She has left a note in which she has mentioned the term bad touch and that she was sexually assaulted by the school principal nearly a week ago, say police
15 Naxals Surrender in Chhattisgarh
More than 2,150 Naxalites, including several senior operatives, have surrendered in Chhattisgarh over the last 23 months.
Chhattisgarh government tasks school principals to monitor stray dogs in and around premises
Slamming the move, Congress spokesperson Sushil Anand Shukla asked why teachers were being assigned duties meant for municipal experts
Girl, 15, Hangs Self In School, Suicide Note Alleges Harassment By Principal
A 15-year-old girl allegedly committed suicide by hanging herself in the study room of a private school after accusing the principal of molesting and sexually harassing her in Chhattisgarh's Jashpur district, officials said on Monday.
4-Year-Old Hung From Tree For Not Completing Homework In Chhattisgarh School
In a shocking incident that has raised disturbing questions about child safety in schools, two women teachers allegedly inflicted brutal punishment on a four-year-old student for not completing his homework.
Teenage girl hangs herself in school; principal held after suicide note claims molestation
JASHPUR: A 15-year-old girl allegedly died by suicide by hanging herself in the study room of a private school after accusing the principal of molesting and sexually harassing her in Chhattisgarh's Jashpur district, officials said on Monday. The principal was arrested after the class 9 student allegedly used a saree to hang herself from a rod of the ceiling on Sunday evening. The school is located in a village under the Bagicha police station limits, Jashpur Senior Superintendent of Police Shashimohan Singh said, adding that the deceased was a resident of the Sitapur area in neighbouring Surguja district. Police found a suicide note at the spot, which accused the school principal, Kuldipan Topno, of molestation and sexual harassment, following which he was arrested, the police officer said. A case was registered, and further investigation is underway, he added. A joint team comprising officials of the education, tribal, and police departments conducted an inquiry following the incident. Preliminary findings revealed that the hostel on the school campus was unauthorised, officials said. Of the 124 students enrolled from classes 6 to 12 in the school, a total of 22 boys and 11 girls were staying in the hostel, which was allegedly being operated without mandatory permissions. All relevant documents have been seized, said Assistant Commissioner of the Tribal Department, Sanjay Singh. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered. The exact cause behind the incident will be ascertained only after the investigation, said Bagicha Sub-Divisional Magistrate Pradeep Rathiya. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)
Maoists offer to surrender by February 15 in letter to three CMs
Special zonal committee of the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist) asks Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh to pause security operations as it considers the governments rehabilitation programme
15 Maoists carrying a total bounty of Rs 48 lakh surrender in Chhattisgarh
Sukma: As many as 15 Maoists, nine of them carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 48 lakh, surrendered before security forces in Chhattisgarhs Sukma district on Monday, officials said. The cadres, including five women and members of the PLGA (Peoples Liberation Guerrilla Army), turned themselves in before senior officials from the police and Central Reserve Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Outrage In Chhattisgarh As Teachers Asked To Track Stray Dogs At Schools
A government order directing teachers to monitor stray dogs on school premises has sparked sharp criticism across Chhattisgarh. Teacher associations and political leaders have called it an insult to the teaching community and demanded its immediate
Maoists bandh against Maredumilli encounters peaceful on tri-State border
Operation Sambhav aimed at eliminating Chhattisgarh Maoists who entered Maredumilli agency remains active
Raipur Diary: : Chhattisgarh forest department tops All-India Forest Sports Meet for 13th year
State leads in all-India Forest Sports Meet For the 13th consecutive year, the Chhattisgarh forest department maintained its supremacy at the All India Forest Sports Meet held in Dehradun. The forest department won the overall Championship trophy. The states indomitable 253-member team led by APCCF Shalini Raina with the sterling spirit secured exceptional results with 74 gold medals and 578 Championship points to stand at Number-1 position in India. Kerala (31 Gold, 357 points) and Karnataka (25 Gold, 326 points) secured 2nd and 3rd places. Such a victory for the forest department team is far more than a sporting milestone, setting new benchmarks of excellence at the national level. Pandum Cafe: A coffee shop with a difference A unique Pandum Cafe in Bastar is not merely a coffee shop but a significant plan to rehabilitate surrendered Maoist cadres and victims of Naxal violence. Launched at the divisional headquarters in Jagdalpur, it provides to those who once picked up guns and engaged violence with sustainable livelihoods. CM Vishnu Deo Sai interacted with the hired enthusiastic team who began a new chapter of hope and reintegration after returning to the social mainstream. As a part of the state governments rehabilitation initiative, the move signifies an innovative effort reflecting a potent journey from conflict to cooperation. Youths here have had training. Aadhaar-enabled attendance from Dec 1 In an intended push towards ensuring transparency, punctuality and administrative efficiency, the state decided to roll-out mandatory Aadhaar-enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS) across all departments operating from the state secretariat complex. The new practice will start from December 1. All employees can register their IN/OUT attendance on their smartphones using Aadhaar-enabled facial verification. This mobile-based system is designed to offer convenience while maintaining biometric integrity. And the wall-mounted, thumb-based biometric devices have been installed at all major entry points of the Secretariat. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
Chhattisgarh Govt directs heads of schools to report on stray dogs, Teachers' body protest
RAIPUR: The Directorate of Public Instructions (DPI), Chhattisgarh government, has directed school principals, headmasters and heads of institutions to ensure timely reporting of stray dogs roaming in the premises and see to it that schools remain safe. The order, however, is being criticised by the Shaley Shikshak Sangh (School Teachers' Union). The DPI in its official circular sent to all joint directors (Education) and District Education Officers (DEO) in the state has referred to the recent directive given by the Supreme Court in one of the writ petitions. The DPI has asked them to implement the order without delay by appointing school principals or heads of education institution as the nodal officer in each school. The order bestows responsibility upon these nodal officersto follow it promptly at the school level to ensure the educational premises or surrounding areas remain safe and conducive with the safety of students. Teachers are often overloaded with various tasks besides their own responsibilities. Such an additional duty is impractical as the directive over-burdening teachers with works other than their core responsibilities. Such imposed order is not good for teachers as well for the academic progress of students. We oppose such an order and appeal to the education minister that responsibility of such a task should be given to local administrationfrom panchayat to municipal corporation, said Virendra Dubey, state president of the Shaley Shikshak Sangh (School Teachers Union). The circular was issued by the Directorate of Public Instructions (DPI). School teachers expressed aversion against the official circular, asserting that it will deviate them from educational related works and may adversely impact the academic curricula. How come principals or headmasters who attend schools only during the fixed hours of the day can remain watchful for stray dogs? And how will he or she identify if the dog is stray or has an owner? We try complying with all that is required for protection or care of students, said a teacher on condition of anonymity. However, the State School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav said the reason behind such an instruction is to keep the higher authorities promptly informed if there is an increase in the number of stray dogs in and around the schools, to ascertain the safety or well-being of students. The governments directive is keeping in line with the spirit of the recent Supreme Court order. No one should feel offended over the directive issued or take it otherwise, the minister said.
CGBSE class 10, 12 exam 2026 time table released: Check complete board examination schedule here
Chhattisgarh Board has announced the 2026 Class 10 and 12 exam schedule. Practical exams are set for January, with theory papers commencing in February. Class 12 exams begin February 20th, followed by Class 10 on February 21st. Students are urged to download the official PDF for precise details and prepare diligently.
100 bribery case highlights deep fault lines in Indias justice system
Indias justice system is under strain as delays, backlogs, and questions over judicial integrity erode public trust. A recent example is an 86-year-old former transport employee in Chhattisgarh who was acquitted of a 100 bribery charge after fighting the case for nearly four decades. Such prolonged pendency now exceeding 5 crore cases nationwide has turned litigation itself into punishment, affecting livelihoods and liberty.
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh government has mandated the Aadhaar-enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS) for all departments in the state secretariat to boost transparency, punctuality and administrative efficiency. The system will be implemented from December 1, a senior official in the CM secretariat said. Secretaries of all departments were given a live demonstration of the new system, including facial authenticationbased attendance and wall-mounted Aadhaar-enabled biometric devices. The testing of the real-time monitoring attendance system has begun. Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel has instructed that AEBAS be extended to all Directorates with effect from 01 January 2026, underscoring the administrations stance that punctuality is non-negotiable. All officers have been advised to ensure strict adherence. I expect every officer and employee to ensure strict punctuality and full compliance as we move towards a modern, accountable, and technology-driven governance framework, said Vishnu Deo Sai, chief minister. Under the new protocol, employees will be required to mark attendance twice daily, IN upon entering and OUT upon leaving. A detailed demonstration of the facial authenticationbased attendance system and the wall-mounted Aadhaar-enabled biometric devices continues for the better understanding of the employees. All employees can register their IN/OUT attendance on their smartphones using Aadhaar-enabled facial verification. This mobile-based system is designed to offer convenience while maintaining biometric integrity. Wall-mounted, thumb-based biometric devices have been installed at all major entry points of the Secretariat buildings, enabling seamless attendance marking for those opting not to use the mobile application. Employees may choose either of the above methods as per their convenience, and both systems will run concurrently. Ahead of the rollout, all employees have been instructed to ensure that their Aadhaar and service details are accurately updated in the attendance portal. Officials cautioned that any lapse, negligence, or non-compliance with the new attendance requirements will be viewed seriously.
Madvi Hidma's Killing Has Broken Maoists' Backbone: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister
The elimination of top Maoist commander Madvi Hidma in an encounter earlier this week has broken the backbone of the rebels, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said on Friday.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that the BJP-led NDAs sweeping victory in the Bihar assembly elections reflected a strong public mandate against infiltrators, and accused Opposition parties of shielding illegal immigrants by resisting the Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Speaking at the BSFs 61st Raising Day celebrations in Bhuj, Kutch, Shah said parties opposing the SIR exercise want to ensure that names of infiltrators remain on the voters list. He described the SIR as a purification process crucial for protecting Indias democratic system. Stopping infiltration is essential not only for national security but also for safeguarding our democracy. Some political parties are weakening the anti-infiltration campaign, Amit Shah said, adding that the government is committed to deporting every single infiltrator. Opposition parties, including the Trinamool Congress in poll-bound West Bengal, have alleged that the SIR could disenfranchise lakhs of valid voters. Shah countered that no political party supporting infiltrators will gain public support. The Bihar election was a clear mandate against infiltrators, he said. The NDA won over 200 seats in the 243-member Assembly, decimating the Mahagathbandhan. The Home Minister also hailed the BSFs role in counter-insurgency and anti-Naxal operations. He said combined efforts of security forces will make India free from the Naxal menace by March 31, 2026. In Chhattisgarh, he noted, the BSF has secured the surrender of 127 Maoists, arrested 73 and neutralised 22. EC working on 'sinister design' to 'destroy' democracy, Opposition parties through SIR: Congress
CGPSC SSE 2024 result released at psc.cg.gov.in: Check direct link to download merit list here
The Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission has announced the provisional merit list for the State Service Exam-2024. This list combines results from the main written exam and interviews. Durg Devesh Prasad Sahu secured the top rank. Candidates can check the official website for the detailed merit list and their selection status.
DC Edit | Maoist Insurgency On Deathbed
Born in Purvati village in Sukma district in Chhattisgarh, Hidma began as a Bastar Dalam member before rising through the ranks of the Dandakarnya Special Zonal Committee. Several states had announced a reward for Hidma who was considered an expert in guerrilla attacks
CGPSC PCS 2024 final result likely today; check updates at psc.cg.gov.in
CGPSC PCS Final Result 2024: The Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) is expected to release the PCS Final Result 2024 today at psc.cg.gov.in. A total of 246 posts, including Deputy Collector, DSP, and Excise Sub-Inspector, will be filled. The commission had earlier declared 3,737 candidates successful in the Prelims and shortlisted 643 for interviews. Additionally, CGPSC announced recruitment for 125 Assistant Professors and seven super specialty doctors across government medical colleges in Chhattisgarh.
Naxalites quitting path of violence, joining mainstream of development: President Murmu
AMBIKAPUR: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday said that Naxalites across the country have been giving up the path of violence and joining the mainstream. Coordinated efforts by the Centre and state governments will make the elimination of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) possible, she said. Addressing a Janjatiya Gaurav Divas event in Ambikapur, the headquarters of Surguja district in Chhattisgarh, she said, tribal communities must move forward step by step along with other social groups. People (Naxalites) have been abandoning the path of Left-Wing Extremism and joining the mainstream of development in Chhattisgarh as well as across the country. With the coordinated efforts of the Central and state governments, the elimination of LWE will become possible, the President said. The Centre and states have been jointly taking steps to achieve this goal, she said, calling the efforts a very satisfying change. More than 1,65,000 participants took part in the recently held Bastar Olympics, which was a matter of great joy, she said. I am confident that by following the ideals of tribal heroes, the residents of Chhattisgarh will make an invaluable contribution to building a strong, self-reliant, and Viksit Bharat (Developed India), she said. Murmu said, Women are the foundation of society, and when they progress, society moves forward Recalling her recent meeting with the Indian Women's World Cup-winning cricket team at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Murmu praised tribal cricketer Kranti Goud, saying she secured a place in the team through hard work and dedication. She said Krantis journey to the national team was filled with challenges, but she emerged as an inspiring example of courage and perseverance. Kranti Goud has presented a revolutionary example of hard work and determination for women across the country, especially for daughters of the tribal community, Murmu said, stressing that traditional sports must be preserved and promoted instead of letting them fade away. The President said tribal communities have always shown deep interest and natural talent in sports and must continue to nurture this strength for future generations. Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai were present at the event. The birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas.
Body of Top Maoist Leader Madvi Hidma Brought to His Native Village in Chhattisgarh
Family members and villagers gather in large numbers as grief grips Poovarti; Hidma was killed in an encounter in ASR district.
Brave cop killed in Chhattisgarh Maoist encounter
BHOPAL: A young inspector of Madhya Pradeshs elite anti-Naxal Hawk Force died after being hit by multiple bullets during a gun battle with armed Naxal cadres in the Kanghurra jungles of Chhattisgarh on Wednesday morning. Ashish Sharma, a decorated officer who had received two gallantry medals from the central government and formed the core of many critical Hawk Force operations, was struck by bullets fired by Naxal cadres near the tri-junction of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh around 8.30 am. Even after taking heavy fire, Sharma continued to lead his team. Bleeding from multiple wounds, he kept firing at the cadres hiding behind thick forest cover until he collapsed. His injuries were severe, with bullet wounds to his shoulder, abdomen, thigh and hands. He was rushed to the Dongargarh community health centre in Chhattisgarhs Rajnandgaon district, but he died despite doctors efforts to save him. We also had the helicopter ambulance ready to airlift him for life-saving treatment at a specialised centre, but he couldnt survive. Weve lost a brave inspector, who formed the core of our most crucial operations and had been awarded an out-of-turn promotion from sub-inspector to inspector this year only due to his key role in the February 19 encounter in the Raunda forests of Balaghat district, which had resulted in the elimination of four hardcore women naxal cadres, special DG (anti-naxal operations) Pankaj Srivastava told TNIE. At the time of the encounter, multiple joint combing and search operations were underway in the dense forests along the three-state border. The teams were acting on specific inputs about the movement of 1315 armed Naxal cadres in the area. The gun battle broke out early Wednesday, and combing operations are still in progress. Search operations after the incident led the cops to massive blood stains, backpacks and other materials, based on which massive damage (including possibly casualty) to the outlaws cannot be ruled out, Srivastava added. Sharma was a native of Gadarwara in Narsinghpur district and had joined the Madhya Pradesh Police as a sub-inspector nine years ago. He was promoted earlier this year in recognition of his outstanding service. According to reports from Narsinghpur, he was to be married in January 2026. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav condoled the death, saying, He displayed unprecedented valour and courage during the joint operation by the police forces of the three states in the jungles of Chhattisgarhs Rajnandgaon district. His supreme sacrifice in the national campaign to wipe out Naxalism will remain unforgettable. Struck by Naxals bullets, he fought till the end Ashish Sharma, a decorated officer who had received two gallantry medals from the central government and formed the core of many critical Hawk Force operations, was struck by bullets fired by Naxal cadres near the tri-junction of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh around 8.30 am. Even after taking heavy fire, Sharma continued to lead his team. Bleeding from multiple wounds, he kept firing at the cadres hiding behind thick forest cover until he collapsed.
Police inspector from Madhya Pradesh killed in encounter with Naxalites on Chhattisgarh-MP border
RAJNANDGAON (Chhattisgarh), Nov 19: A police inspector from Madhya Pradesh was killed in an encounter with Naxalites along the Chhattisgarh-MP border on Wednesday morning, a senior official said. The exchange of fire took place in the forest of Kanghurra, adjoining the Bortalav area of Chhattisgarh, when a joint team of security personnel from the two states was out on an anti-Naxal operation, Inspector General of Police, Rajnandgaon Range Abhishek Shandilya said. The operation was launched based on intelligence inputs about [] The post Police inspector from Madhya Pradesh killed in encounter with Naxalites on Chhattisgarh-MP border appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Additional DGP Says AP to be Maoist Free by Centres March 2026 Deadline
Laddha said the ultras had chosen Andhra Pradesh as a shelter zone following police raids on them in the forests of Chhattisgarh
India will start clinical trial for treating sickle cell disease among central India tribal
On the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Institute of Genomic and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB) has transferred indigenous technology for developing a CRISPR-based gene-editing therapy for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) to the Serum Institute of India Private Limited (SII). India has the second-highest number of children born with SCD globally, with an estimated 15,000 to 25,000 new cases each year, particularly among tribal communities in Central India. SII will now conduct clinical trials to develop a more cost-effective treatment for this genetic disorder. At present, CRISPR-based gene-editing therapy for SCD costs around USD 3 million (approximately Rs 26 crore), mainly due to high licensing fees. The newly developed indigenous technology, however, is expected to bring the cost down to around Rs 50 lakh. Meanwhile, IGIB has already begun the first phase of clinical trials in collaboration with multiple agencies, including the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and CSIR. We have created a pool of around 150 potential participants from cities such as Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh, Raipur in Chhattisgarh, and Ranchi in Jharkhand to begin the clinical trial, said Dr Souvik Maiti, Senior Principal Scientist at CSIR-IGIB. We will finalise three participants from this pool for our first trial after obtaining the necessary approvals, added Maiti, the lead investigator for this flagship project. Extraction of the affected gene from bone marrow will be carried out at AIIMS Delhi, while the gene editing will take place at IGIBs dedicated centre. The extraction process is expected to take 120 days. Following the transfer of technology, SII will collaborate with IGIB to conduct the second and third phases of clinical trials, involving a larger pool of participants. IGIB noted that a similar treatment was successfully administered to three African individuals in the United States. Encouraged by this progress, Indian scientists decided to replicate the process domestically using indigenous technology. It has taken nearly six years for India to develop its own CRISPR platform. Experts believe that similar indigenisation of CRISPR technology can also be achieved in the agriculture sector. Currently, ICAR has been negotiating licensing fees with foreign agencies rather than developing its own indigenous CRISPR systems.
Madhya Pradeshs Hawk Force Inspector killed in encounter with Maoists in Chhattisgarh
Ashish Sharma, 40, was leading a Hawk Force platoon in an inter-State joint operation when he sustained bullet injuries in his thigh and abdomen
Hawk Force Inspector Killed During Encounter With Maoists In Chhattisgarh
In a major setback to Madhya Pradesh's elite anti-Maoist unit, Hawk Force, one of its brightest and most decorated officers, Inspector Ashish Sharma, was killed during a fierce early morning encounter with armed Maoists.
Hawk Force inspector killed in encounter with Naxals in Chhattisgarh forests
BHOPAL: Inspector Ashish Sharma of the Madhya Pradesh Polices elite anti-Naxal unit, the Hawk Force, was killed in action during an early-morning encounter with armed Naxal cadres in the dense forests near the MPChhattisgarhMaharashtra tri-junction on Wednesday. Sharma, around 40 and a decorated officer with two gallantry medals, sustained fatal bullet injuries in the thigh and abdomen while leading the Hawk Force team in a coordinated operation with Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra police. The gunfight broke out around 8.30 am after the combined forces, acting on specific intelligence, moved into a heavily forested area in Chhattisgarh territory where a large Naxal group had been sighted. A senior MP police officer told TNIE that Sharma was rushed to the Community Health Centre in Dongargarh, Rajnandgaon district. Despite all efforts by doctors, he succumbed to excessive bleeding, the officer said. An air ambulance had been arranged to shift him to a specialised facility, but he died before evacuation. Sharma, posted in Balaghat district, was known for his valour and operational leadership. He had received an out-of-turn promotion earlier this year after spearheading a successful anti-Naxal operation that led to the elimination of three hardcore women Naxal cadres in the Raunda forests of Balaghat in February 2025.
Chhattisgarh ATS detains two juveniles linked to Pakistan-based ISIS handlers
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has apprehended two juveniles in Raipur for allegedly being in contact with Pakistan-based handlers linked to an ISIS module and attempting to influence others through social media. According to officials, both minors were influenced by the handlers and operated fake social media accounts to disseminate ISIS ideology and circulate violent, provocative content aimed at drawing more youths into the network. State Home Minister Vijay Sharma said the arrests followed a lengthy investigation. This is the first such instance to emerge this year. Efforts are underway to check if similar cases exist in other parts of Chhattisgarh. The two youngsters have been booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and produced before court. They were working under the direction of ISIS modules active in Pakistan, he said. We will also identify those associated with ISIS and take stern action in Chhattisgarh. The strength of ATS team will be augmented in Raipur and other cities of the state, the home minister added. In its statement, the ATS said a Pakistan-based ISIS module had been running pseudonymous accounts in cyberspace to destabilise India and compromise internal security. The agency added that Instagram IDs were being used to mislead Indian youths, promoting anti-India activities, extreme violence, radicalisation and Jihadist ideology. Evidence also indicated that the adolescents were being encouraged to set up an ISIS module within Chhattisgarh, the ATS noted.
Five killed, seven injured as SUV hits stationary truck in Chhattisgarh's Kondagaon district
KONDAGAON: Five people were killed and seven others injured after the sports utility vehicle (SUV) they were travelling in rammed into a stationary truck on National Highway-30 in Chhattisgarh's Kondagaon district, police said on Wednesday. The accident occurred on Tuesday night near the Masora Toll Plaza, when the victims were returning to Bade Dongar-Bhainsabeda after watching a movie in Kondagaon, a police official said. As many as 12 persons were on board the SUV, a Scorpio, when it crashed into the truck parked on the roadside, he said. Five of its occupants -- Lakhan Madavi, Bhupendra Madavi, Rupesh Madavi, Nutan Manjhi, and Shatrughan Manjhi -- were killed, while the seven others were injured, he said. Some of the injured persons have been referred to Jagdalpur for treatment, he said, adding that police have launched an investigation into the fatal crash.
Anti-Terrorism Squad Arrests 2 Chhattisgarh Teens For ISIS Links
The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Chhattisgarh detained two boys in Raipur for their alleged links with terror outfit Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma has said.
Chhattisgarh ATS apprehends two minors for links with Pakistan-based ISIS module
Police said that the handlers attempted to disseminate ISIS ideology and violent provocative content and set up an ISIS module in Chhattisgarh through the duo
Jharkhand to introduce AI-based elephant alert system along Chhattisgarh border
RANCHI: Jharkhand is all set to introduce an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Elephant Alert System in regions bordering Chhattisgarh. According to officials, states first AI-based camera hooter system will be installed near Rajabasa village under the Chakulia Range of Jamshedpur Forest Division as a pilot project. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Saba Alam Ansari informed that it will be Jharkhands first such AI-powered hooter system designed to detect elephants entering a particular area automatically and alert the villages by sounding the hooter. As soon as an elephant enters the visibility rage of the AI-based cameras, the hooter will sound automatically, alerting villagers to protect their families, and livestock, said the DFO. This will be first such project in Jharkhand on the lines of Chhattisgarh, he added. The DFO further added that the entire system is solar-powered and can be monitored in real time through a laptop or mobile app, even during power cuts. As of now, five cameras will be installed covering the village from all sides, he said. Looking at the success of this project, it will be expanded to other elephant prone areas, including Ghatshila, Potka and Bodam ranges, said the DFO. The AI-based hooter system will not only reduce damage to the life and property but also mark a major step toward ensuring peaceful human-elephant coexistence in Jharkhand, he added. Besides alerting the villagers, the forest department teams will also receive an alert message to remain cautious. The system will also allow authorised forest officials to control it remotely. These AI-based cameras will sound the hooter by only if an elephant or a herd of elephants comes into its visibility range and will ignore if any other animal or human being crosses by it, said Ansari. According to sources in forest department, the hooter system will sound alerts in two phases; firstly, when elephants are four kilometres away, the siren will sound for 20 seconds and secondly, when they reach within the range of two kilometres, a louder siren will sound for 40 seconds, so that the villagers to go to a safer place. Notably, Chakulia Forest Range, under Kolhan region of Jharkhand, is an elephant prone zone, having more than 15-20 elephants at a time which sometimes goes to 35-40 after the influx of elephants from neighbouring West Bengal. The region witnesses frequent man-animal conflicts resulting to significant loss of life. Due to frequent wandering of elephants, Chakradharpur (CKP) Division under South Eastern Railways is also to installed an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Elephant Intrusion Detection System (EIDS) soon to protect elephants being mowed down by the speeding trains. This system detects the presence of elephants around the rail tracks and inform the loco pilots on time. The Intrusion Detection System, for which a successful trail was completed recently along the Barabamboo-Chakradharpur-Lotapahar section, detects the presence of elephants around the rail track and informs the loco pilots on time so that they can slow down the speeding train. This system will operate through fiber optics and sensors. This step will prove to be very crucial in Kolhan region, where a large number of elephants cross railway tracks on regular basis and many of them are hit be trains and get killed.
Six Maoists including Commander Hidma killed in encounter in Andhra's ASR
RAIPUR: Maoist commander and Central Committee Member Madvi Hidma, his wife Madkam Raje (DKSZC Member), and four others were killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitarama Raju district on Tuesday. The four others who were killed in the gun battle have been identified as Lakmal (DCM) Kamlu (PPCM), Malla (PPCM) and Deve (personal guard of Hidma). A native of Purvati village under Jagargunda police station in Sukma district, Hidma also known by aliases Hidmanna, Hidmalu, and Deva, joined as Bal sangham (lowest cadre of the banned outfit) in 1991. He became commander of Peoples' Liberation Guerrilla Armys most violent military outfit, and subsequently got elevated from secretary of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC) to the rank of Central Committee (CC) Member of the outlawed organisation in 2023. Hidma, for over two decades, remained a formidable tribal commander among Maoist cadres and the affected villages in south Chhattisgarh. He was familiar with the Abujhmad region, around 4,000 sq km of forested terrain that had served as a safe haven to armed warfare units of Maoists and their top leaderships. He orchestrated numerous brutal armed attacks on forces, targeted killings, and large-scale ambushes, posing an arduous threat to peace and stability across the Dandakaranya region in south Chhattisgarh including the border areas of adjoining states. Intelligence officials in the state cited his collusion in almost every major Maoist attack. Despite repeated appeals by the government and senior police officers to surrender and return to mainstream life, Hidma remained elusive and seen committed to the ideology of CPI (Maoist). Last week, at the behest of the Chhattisgarh home minister Vijay Sharma, the mother of Hidma Punji Madvi in Sukma earnestly asked him through video message to lay down arms and return home. But that didn't yield any result. The end of Hidmas chapter is a decisive breakthrough to wipe out the Maoist outfit. The few Naxal cadres and their depleted leadership now have no option except to shun violence and join the social mainstream, said Sundarraj Pattlingam, Bastar Range IGP. The ongoing offensive by forces against the left-wing extremists forced the top Maoists leaders to constantly change their locations from Chhattisgarh to adjoining states. Under sustained and coordinated security pressure across Bastar region, Hidma and his close group were forced to abandon their traditional safe hideouts. If reliable sources are to be believed, they had been taking shelter in the Karegutta hills and adjoining ChhattisgarhTelangana interstate border for the last few months, continuously fleeing from one location to another after encountering significant setbacks in Dandakaranya area. Raje too held key positions beginning as a Bal Sangam member (199495) and ultimately becoming Mobile Political School (MOPOS) in-charge and Battalion Party Committee member.
Six Maoists, including top commander Madvi Hidma and his wife, killed in Andhra Pradesh
Raipur: Top Naxalite commander Madvi Hidma, who masterminded several attacks over the last two decades, was killed in an encounter in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, a breakthrough the Chhattisgarh Police described as the last nail in the coffin of insurgency. Security forces gunned down Hidma (51), his wife Madkam Raje, and four other Maoists Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Hidma's Elimination 'Historic Victory' In Modi Govt's Fight Against Naxalism: BJP
The Chhattisgarh police described the death of Hidma, an alleged mastermind of several attacks, as the last nail in the coffin of the Left-wing insurgency: Reports
Hidmas killing significant blow to red terror: Chhattisgarh CM
Madvi Hidma was one of the most notorious Maoist commanders active in Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, say police
ECI working on 'sinister design' to 'destroy' democracy, Opposition parties through SIR: Congress
The SIR is underway in Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep
EC working on 'sinister design' to 'destroy' democracy, Opposition parties through SIR: Congress
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Tuesday accused the Election Commission of working on a sinister design to destroy democracy and opposition parties through the SIR exercise, and vowed to take to the streets by holding a protest rally at Ramleela Maidan here in the first week of December. Upping the ante over its 'vote chori' pitch, the Congress said the poll body's conduct during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process has been deeply disappointing as the exercise is aimed at deleting targeted votes and demanded that it must immediately demonstrate that it is not operating under the BJP's shadow. AICC general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal told reporters after the meeting that the Election Commission's motive is to destroy democracy and opposition parties, which has never happened in history. We are going to the streets. During the first week of December, the Congress party is organising a massive rally in Ramleela Maidan with lakhs of people attending it, he told reporters, adding that the Congress will expose the Election Commission by organising the protest event. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who chaired a meeting with key office-bearers from 12 states and Union Territories (UTs) where the SIR is underway, alleged that the BJP is attempting to weaponise the exercise of the electoral rolls process for vote chori. Kharge, former party chief Rahul Gandhi and AICC general secretaries participated in a review meeting with state unit chiefs, Congress Legislature Party leaders and secretaries of 12 states and UTs where the SIR is underway. The states and UTs are Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. Among these, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and West Bengal will go to the polls in 2026. Phase-II of the SIR exercise began on November 4 with the enumeration stage and will continue till December 4. The Congress party is unequivocally committed to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral rolls, Kharge said on X after he chaired the meeting. We held a comprehensive strategy review with AICC General Secretaries, AICC In-Charges, PCCs, CLPs, and AICC Secretaries from the states/UTs where the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process is underway. The Congress Party is unequivocally committed to safeguarding the pic.twitter.com/cVcjyaJGEo Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) November 18, 2025 At a time when public confidence in democratic institutions is already strained, the Election Commission's conduct during the SIR process has been deeply disappointing, he said. It must immediately demonstrate that it is not operating under the BJP's shadow and it remembers its Constitutional oath and allegiance to the people of India, not to any ruling party, Kharge said. We firmly believe that the BJP is attempting to weaponise the SIR process for vote chori. And if the EC chooses to look the other way, that failure is not just administrative - it becomes a complicity of silence, the Congress chief said. Our workers, BLOs, and District/City/Block Presidents will therefore remain relentlessly vigilant. We will expose every attempt, however subtle, to delete genuine voters or insert bogus ones, Kharge said. The Congress will not allow democratic safeguards to be eroded by partisan misuse of institutions, he asserted. Venugopal said while purification of electoral rolls is an undeniably necessary objective, it must be carried out in a bona fide manner. The ECI's conduct thus far has been to further the BJP's 'vote chori' agenda, setting aside its Constitutional obligation of impartiality. We will relentlessly fight against their attempts to manipulate voter rolls through unfair deletions or the insertion of bogus voters to create space for the BJP to carry out its nefarious activities, he said on X. It is our democracy at stake, and we will stand up to every attempt - big or small - that threatens our Constitutional framework, Venugopal asserted. After the meeting, he said that the general feeling of the Pradesh Congress Committees was that the Election Commission was purposefully trying to delete votes of some sections of the society. The design of the SIR itself is to delete targeted votes. This is what we experienced in Bihar also and now they are going to start it in 12 states, he said, adding that they announced on Monday a different 'Special Revision' for Assam. This is a sinister attempt by the Election Commission to destroy democracy in this country. It is completely unethical and completely undemocratic, he alleged. Noting that the revision of the voter list normally takes place during elections for a longer time, but it is now done within one month. Due to this, several suicides by BLOs are taking place because of pressure, he claimed, adding that they are being pressured by EC officials to complete this exercise within one month. In Kerala, he said, the BLOs have been asked to submit the final list of the SIR on December 9, the day the first phase of local body elections will be held. He said even though the Kerala Assembly passed a resolution for postponing the SIR exercise, the state's chief electoral officer asked the EC to defer the exercise, saying this is not the right time to conduct it, and all political parties except the BJP made the same demand, but the EC is not listening. It is very clear that they are working only on behalf of the BJP and (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi. It is quite surprising, he claimed. Congress leader Pawan Khera also said the party's rally at Ramleela Maidan against the SIR exercise will expose the 'mal-intention' and politicisation of the EC. The SIR is to delete names and not add new names of voters, he asserted.
Maoist Commander Madvi Hidma Killed: Mastermind of 26 Attacks Neutralised in Major Encounter
In a major fight against Naxalism, top Maoist commander Madvi Hidma, accused of orchestrating at least 26 major attacks on security forces and civilians, has been killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradeshs Alluri Sitharamaraju district. His wife, Raje alias Rajakka, is also among the dead, who include Chelluri Narayana aka Suresh, SZCM and Tech Shankar, Malla and Deve, Hidmas guard.The encounter unfolded around 6 am in the dense jungles of Marud Palli in West Godavari district, near the Andhra PradeshChhattisgarhTelangana tri-junction. Total six bodies of Naxalites have been recovered after a fierce exchange of fire between security forces and Maoist cadres who were reportedly camping in the area. n18oc_indian18oc_breaking-newsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Chhattisgarh Maoists trying move into Andhra to revive Naxal movement, says official
Two days back, we received specific intelligence inputs that a few top Maoists, including Madvi Hidma, are planning to enter Andhra Pradesh to revive their movement, Intelligence chief of A.P. said
28 CPI (Maoist) cadre, militia members arrested in Krishna district
The Naxalites, natives of Chhattisgarh, took shelter in a private house on Vijayawada outskirts pretending to be daily wage labourers, the police said
Madvi Hidma, India's dreaded Naxal, who was responsible for leading at least 26 armed attacks was killed in an encounter today. Hidma remained a mystery over the years but with the intensification of anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh and Bastar region, Hidma was forced to flee in the deep forest. His extensive security rings in the forests made him untraceable for years.
Most wanted Maoist leader Madvi Hidma killed 12 days ahead of Amit Shah's deadline
NEW DELHI: Top Maoist leader Madvi Hidma , who headed the Peoples Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion 1 of the Maoists, was killed in an encounter with security personnel in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitaramaraju district on Tuesday. He was gunned down 12 days before the November 30 deadline set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to eliminate the most wanted Naxalite, sources said. Madvi Hidma was directly involved in more than 26 major Naxal attacks, making him one of India's most feared insurgent leaders. He was killed in the dense Pullagandi forests located at the tri-junction of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. Amit Shah had earlier set a deadline of March 31, 2026, to eliminate Maoists in the country. At a security review meeting, Shah also told the top security officials engaged in anti-Naxal operations to eliminate Hidma before November 30, and he was killed 12 days before this deadline, a source privy to the home minister's diktat. After reviewing the operations against Naxals, sources said the left-wing extremism is likely to be over ahead of the home minister's March deadline. Madvi Hidma was the commander of a battalion of the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) and a member of the Maoist Central Committee. Born in Sukma in 1981, he was believed to be the only tribal member from Bastar to be part of this top leadership group. (With inputs from PTI)
Hidmas end marks a decisive moment in fight against Maoist insurgency
Madavi Hidma, a most wanted Maoist leader, was killed in an operation. This happened deep inside forests at the tri-junction of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. His death signals a turning point in India's effort to contain Left-wing extremism. Security officials viewed his killing as evidence of a sharpened strategy and improved coordination between forces.
Most wanted Naxal Hidma killed 12 days ahead of Amit Shahs deadline
NEW DELHI, Nov 18: Madavi Hidma, the dreaded Maoists commander, was killed by security forces 12 days before the November 30 deadline set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to eliminate the most wanted Naxalite, sources said on Tuesday. Security forces killed the 44-year-old Naxal leader in the dense Pullagandi forests located at the tri-junction of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. The Union home minister had set a deadline of March 31, 2026, for the eradication of the Maoist problem [] The post Most wanted Naxal Hidma killed 12 days ahead of Amit Shahs deadline appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Central Forces Detain Six Suspected Maoists During Searches in Penamaluru
Searches follow intelligence inputs on Chhattisgarh Maoists allegedly taking shelter in the area after the Maredumilli encounter.
A government school teacher in Balrampurs Machandand village in Chhattisgarh was suspended after a video showed him teaching incorrect English spellings like Sanday, Wensday, and Noge. Villagers also alleged misuse of alcohol by another ...
Naxalite shot dead in encounter with security forces in Chattisgarh
A Naxalite was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarhs Sukma district on Tuesday, with intermittent firing still underway
Naxalite killed in encounter with cops in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
A Naxalite was killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Tuesday. The exchange of fire broke out in the morning on a forested hill under Errabor police station limits when a team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxalite operation based on inputs about the presence of Maoist cadres in the area, a police official said. So far, the body of one Naxalite has been recovered from the spot, he said. An intermittent gunfight was underway, and further details were awaited, he added. On Sunday, three Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security personnel in the forested hills of Bhejji and Chintagufa police station areas of Sukma. With the latest action, 263 Naxalites have been killed in encounters in Chhattisgarh so far this year. Of them, 234 were eliminated in the Bastar division, comprising seven districts, including Sukma, while 27 others were gunned down in Gariaband district, which falls in the Raipur division. Two Naxalites were killed in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district in Durg division. (This is a developing story)
Maoist killed in encounter with police in Chhattisgarhs Sukma
The exchange of fire started on a forested hill under Errabor police station limits when a team of security personnel was out on an anti-Maoist operation
INTERVIEW | 'Freebies a worry, but welfare policy needed
Chhattisgarh is celebrating the silver jubilee of its formation this year. The BJP has governed the tribal state for most of this period. In an interview with TNIE , Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai discusses his governments achievements and the developmental challenges that persist. Excerpts: Looking at the next 25 years, what is your boldest vision for Chhattisgarh in 2050? Earlier, our people faced the dire issue of hunger. People relied solely on traditional sources for their livelihoods, such as kodo, kutki, and mahua. Later, we developed one of the best Public Distribution Systems (PDS), providing affordable rice and salt to tribal and rural communities. Also, we implemented fair pricing for forest produce, built roads and hospitals, and laid electricity lines. For the next 25 years, weve created a blueprint and vision documents to transform Chhattisgarh into a developed state. We aim to double our current Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) within the next five years, with a target of reaching Rs 75 lakh crore over the next 25 years. Which sectors will you prioritise to generate jobs and promote inclusive development? We are rich in minerals, ores, and forest resources, and we have a strong agricultural base. So far, we have received investment proposals totalling Rs 7.5 lakh crore in energy, AI data centers, semiconductors, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. These sectors are expected to generate jobs. Our new industrial policy states that any industry engaging 1,000 local people will receive incentives. We will also focus on agriculture in the state known as the Paddy Bowl of India by expanding irrigation facilities and promoting organic farming, livestock, and fisheries, especially in the Bastar region. We also designated tourism as Industry and promoting Homestays helps local people earn a living. What is the single biggest challenge for Chhattisgarh, and how do you plan to meet it in the coming 5-10 years? Our largest tribal region is Bastar, which has been deeply impacted by Left Wing Extremism (LWE) or Naxalite terrorism. Developmental works didnt reach that area as expected. Our double-engine governments led by PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, and our state government, reaffirmed our approach to wipe out the Naxal movement from the Bastar region by March 31, 2026. They have a target to wipe out Naxals from the country. That will lead to a restart and provide momentum for developmental works through various schemes, such as Niyad Nellanar, meaning aapka achcha gaon (your good village). According to the latest Status of Adivasi Livelihoods 2022 report, the average annual income of ST households is lower than that of the parent Madhya Pradesh, despite a better literacy rate. Moreover, among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), incomes are much lower. Why is this so? In tribal regions like Bastar and Sarguja, LWE has disrupted our developmental programmes, affecting their incomes. With support from the Central governments scheme, Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, we are intervening there to increase the income of tribal communities. The mega scheme aims to cover over 6,600 tribal villages across states through various developmental and infrastructural initiatives. For PVTGs, our Prime Minister initiated the Janjati Adivasi NyayMaha Abhiyan to promote the social and economic development of these groups, including approximately 32,000 housing facilities and 2,500 km of roads under construction. Besides, we have set up a regional development authority for Bastar and Sarguja to bring development to their doorstep. Why does Chhattisgarh top the list of the highest number of rejections of claims under Community Forest Rights? This issue stems from the poor implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) by the previous Congress government, which incorrectly distributed land pattas, leading to these rejections. While we excel in providing Individual Forest Rights, the Community Forest Rights were misused under the Congress rule. We are currently conducting a verification process to address it. Both the BJP and Congress now offer free debt and cash cards, which may provide short-term political gains. However, this approach is not sustainable in the long run and places significant pressure on state finances, potentially challenging economic growth. Your comment. We are all concerned about the freebies issue, but a welfare policy is needed. Farmers support us, and we are committed to improving their lives. We are purchasing crops at Rs 3,100 per quintal and will continue to do so. Our state is rich in resources, particularly in minerals and forestry. I believe that the intentions and policies of the rulers should be positive, as this will pave the way for future development. Irrigated land has expanded the slowest in Chhattisgarh. Moreover, around 71 percent of the arable land is rainfall-dependent. Why is this so? When we compare our irrigation potential before November 2000 and now, you will find a huge difference. We are working on it to further increase this potential.
Vacancies in Information Commissioner posts undermining RTI Act: Supreme Court
Observing that the vacancies in the Information Commissioner posts undermine the functioning of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the Supreme Court on Monday directed Himachal Pradesh to fill all vacant posts in its State Information Commission (SIC) within two months. It also instructed Jharkhand to complete its long-pending appointment process within one month. A two-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Surya Kant and including Justice Joymalya Bagchi, was hearing a petition filed by Anjali Bhardwaj, Commodore Lokesh Batra (Retd.) and Amrita Johri. The plea was on the prolonged failure of the Union government and several states to appoint Information Commissioners. Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the petitioners, pointed out that the Central Information Commission (CIC) has been without a chief for more than two months and that eight of the ten sanctioned Information Commissioner posts are vacant. He submitted that the CIC currently faces a backlog of nearly 30,000 cases. Bhushan contended that several SICs are also functioning with serious shortages. Bhushan further noted that the situation in several State Information Commissions was also alarming. In Jharkhand, the SIC has been defunct for more than five years and now the commission has even stopped registering new cases. In Himachal Pradesh, the SIC has been defunct for more than four months. He highlighted that in Chhattisgarh, the SIC is functioning with a single commissioner despite pendency of nearly 35,000 appeals and complaints. Similarly, in Maharashtra, the SIC is functioning with eight commissioners. while three posts are lying vacant and the backlog of cases is nearly 1 lakh, Bhushan pointed out. In Tamil Nadu, the government has sanctioned only seven posts of commissioners even though the SIC has among the largest backlogs in the country at 41,000, he said. In Madhya Pradesh, the SIC is functioning with four commissioners. while 20,000 matters are pending, he added. In several other states also, despite large backlogs, several posts of commissioners are lying vacant. It was highlighted that governments are completely undermining peoples Right to Information by not appointing information commissioners in a timely and transparent manner, leading to buildup of large backlogs and long delays of more than one year in the disposal of appeals and complaints. The issue of ensuring transparency in the appointment process as laid down in the Anjali Bhardwaj judgment of 2019 was also highlighted. The lawyer added that since the last hearing on October 27, 2025, the Karnataka government has filled all the vacancies in the commission and the SIC is now functioning at its full strength of 11 commissioners. The counsel for the Union of India stated that the selection committee meeting will be held at the earliest and the appointment process will be completed.
'Special revision' of electoral rolls to commence in poll-bound Assam soon
GUWAHATI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday ordered Special Revision (SR) of electoral rolls in Assam which is expected to go to elections in March or April next year. The Commission has directed a Special Revision u/s 21 of the Representation of the Peoples Act 1950 with reference to 01.01.2026 as the qualifying date in the State of Assam, the Commission instructed Assams Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). The SR stands between the annual special summary revision and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, officials said. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who was away in London on Monday, posted on X, The Govt of Assam welcomes the Election Commission of Indias decision to undertake a Special Revision of the electoral roll with 01.01.2026 as the qualifying date. He was confident the exercise would help ensure clean, updated and accurate electoral rolls for all eligible citizens. Assam will extend full cooperation to the @ECISVEEP to complete the revision in a transparent and time-bound manner, he further wrote. The ECI said Electoral Registration Officer of each Assembly segment would be responsible for ensuring that no eligible citizen is left out while at the same time, no ineligible person is included in the electoral roll. Any person is entitled to be an elector and on application to be registered in the electoral roll for that constituency if that person is a citizen of India, not less than 18 years of age as on 01.02.2020, ordinary resident of the constituency, not disqualified under any law, and not of unsound mind, the ECI instructions to the Assam CEO read. The Commission had last month ordered the SIR for 12 states and Union Territories Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and West Bengal will go to elections in 2026. As Assam is also going to polls next year, its exclusions from the SIR raised questions. However, the ECI clarified that separate provisions of the Citizenship Act apply in Assam where the Supreme Court-monitored exercise to verify citizenship was about to be concluded.
3 Maoists with 15 lakh bounty killed in Sukma encounter
Security forces neutralized three Maoists in Sukma, Chhattisgarh. Among the deceased was a sniper specialist wanted for the killing of an additional SP. The encounter occurred during an anti-Maoist operation in Tumalpad village. The police have urged armed cadres to surrender and rejoin society. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat Naxalite activities in the region.
Butterfly that mimics dry leaf may become Madhya Pradeshs next 'state butterfly'
pBHOPAL: A tropical Asian butterfly, famed for its extraordinary ability to camouflage itself as a dry or dead leaf, may soon be declared tiger-cheetah state Madhya Pradeshs state butterfly. The countrys tiger-cheetah-leopard-wolf and gharial state Madhya Pradesh may soon notify the Orange Oakleaf variety as its state butterfly. If the state forest departments proposal to declare Kallima inachus as the states butterfly materialises, the Orange Oakleaf will become the central Indian states official state butterfly. Confirming that a proposal has been sent recently to the state government, MPs Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF-Wildlife), Subhranjan Sen, said once the proposal is cleared, MP will join the select league of states which already have their state butterflies. The Orange Oakleaf butterfly is particularly found in the dense forests of the Satpura Mountain Range. Its declaration as the states butterfly will render momentum to focussed efforts on butterfly conservation, Sen told TNIE on Sunday. At least ten states and Union Territories in the country have granted state butterfly status to unique genres of butterflies. These states include Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and Uttarakhand, which notified their state butterflies between 2016 and 2023. Once MP notifies the Orange Oakleaf as its state butterfly, it will become perhaps the first state in central India to do so. The Orange Oakleaf butterfly flies in the Himalayas at low elevations, from Jammu and Kashmir to Garhwal and Kumaon, and across West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and other northeastern states. It is also found in central and peninsular India, including Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. It flies along the central Indian highlands to Pachmarhi and Amarkantak in the Satpura Mountain Range in Madhya Pradesh. Its wings are shaped like a leaf when in a closed position. When the wings are closed, only the cryptic underside markings are visible. The resemblance to a dried leafa masqueradeis extremely realistic and gives the genus its common names, the oakleaf or dead leaf. Butterflies occupy a key position in ecosystem stability by acting as pollinators, helping plants reproduce and being a critical part of the food web or chain also, rendering a food source for predators like birds and bats. They are also vital environmental indicators, as their sensitivity to changes in their habitat signals the overall health of an ecosystem, the PCCF-Wildlife said. Notification of a state butterfly by the forest- and wildlife-rich state will also promote focussed research on various butterflies in MP, which is already considered home to 150 to 175 butterfly varieties.
3 Naxals, With Rs 5 Lakh Reward Each, Killed During Encounter In Chhattisgarh's Sukma
Three Naxals carrying Rs 5 lakh rewards each were killed in an encounter with security forces near Tumalpad village in Sukma, Chhattisgarh.
Three Maoists killed in encounter with police in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
The gunfight broke out in forested hills of Bhejji and Chintagufa police station areas in morning when team of DRG was out on anti-Maoist operation based on inputs about presence of Maoist cadres in region, the SP said
Three Naxalites killed in encounter in Chhattisgarhs Sukma
Three Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarhs Sukma district on Sunday, police said. The gunfight broke out on the forested hills between the Bhejji and Chintagufa police station areas in the morning when a team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) launched an anti-Naxalite operation based on inputs about the presence of Maoist cadres in the region, Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavan told PTI. So far, three Naxalites have been killed, and the operation is still underway, he said. With this latest encounter, 262 Naxalites have been killed in Chhattisgarh this year. Of them, 233 were eliminated in the Bastar division, which comprises seven districts, including Sukma, while 27 were killed in Gariaband district in the Raipur division. Two Naxalites were also gunned down in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district in the Durg division. (With inputs from PTI)
Three Naxalites killed in encounter with cops in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
Security forces neutralized three Naxalites in a fierce encounter in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Sunday. The gun battle erupted during an anti-Maoist operation in the Bhejji and Chintagufa areas. This incident brings the total Naxalite fatalities in Chhattisgarh this year to 262, with a significant number eliminated in the Bastar region.
Chhattisgarh: 'I Will Cut Lemon in Your Name', BJP MP Warns Officials
He threatened to invoke misfortune for them for not heeding public grievances
Chhattisgarh: Naxalism Breathing Its Last, Over 2,000 Maoists Surrendered in Last 2 Years: Sai
The CM said the policy has ensured the suitable rehabilitation of the surrendered Naxals helping them lead a dignified life in the society
'Congress abandoned tribals, BJP restored their dignity and development': PM Modi
AHMEDABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on Saturday in Gujarat, launched a blistering political attack on the Congress. He accused the party of abandoning tribal communities for six decades and failing to recognise their contributions. He highlighted the BJPs record of expanding welfare spending, building institutions, and elevating Adivasi leaders to national prominence since 2014. PM Modi also invoked history, stating that tribal sacrifices in the freedom struggle were suppressed to glorify 'a few families', and asserted that his government restored long-overdue honour to tribal icons and communities across India. He also accused the Congress of leaving tribal communities to their fate during its six decades in power. He said that malnutrition, poor health services, broken connectivity and the absence of education became the forced identity of tribal regions as previous governments refused to intervene. They sat idle while an entire community struggled, he declared, linking each failure directly to Congress leadership. PM Modi also recalled the political timeline, emphasising that it was only when Atal Bihari Vajpayee became Prime Minister that India saw the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Tribal Affairs, something he described as a foundational correction that Congress had never even attempted. Yet, once the Congress-led government returned to power, the ministry was reduced to a token department with only a small amount allotted for tribal welfare, stalling crucial development. He said his government, since 2014, increased the ministrys spending several times, building momentum for development in areas ignored for generations. He linked the expansion directly to health reforms, stating that the government boosted medical facilities in tribal districts as they face the deadly threat of sickle cell anaemia. He also linked welfare to empowerment, highlighting massive investment in sports infrastructure and reminding the audience that Indias World Cup-winning womens team had one proud tribal player who symbolised rising representation. Seamlessly shifting from welfare to recognition, PM Modi underscored how his government honoured Adivasi achievements long overshadowed by dynastic politics. In the pursuit of giving credit for independence to a few families, the sacrifice and dedication of my tribal brothers and sisters were ignored, he said, expanding the critique into a broader historical narrative. He argued that before 2014, icons like Bhagwan Birsa Munda were not widely remembered, but his government changed it so that the future generation would know the great gift our tribal brothers and sisters gave us. PM Modi pointed to the surge in tribal representation as evidence of this shift. He recalled the Padma Shri awarded to Adivasi painter Paresh Rathwa and highlighted that Indias President today comes from the tribal community. With the same breath, he cited the rise of leaders such as Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Chhattisgarhs Chief Minister, who he said is driving transformative change, Nagalands Neiphiu Rio, who is doing remarkable work,. He also mentioned Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who is working tirelessly to develop his state. PM Modi said that it reflected a new era where tribal communities are not just beneficiaries, but leaders shaping Indias direction. He noted that the tribal societys roots extend back to Lord Ram, yet their place in Indias progress was never acknowledged by earlier governments. By the end of his speech, PM Modis message wove together politics, history, development, identity and framed the BJP as the first party to give tribal communities both recognition and representation, portraying Congress as the force that kept them on the margins for decades. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated development projects worth over Rs 9,700 crore in Gujarats Narmada district, giving a major push to the states infrastructure drive. Earlier in the day, he reviewed the construction progress of the bullet train station in Surat, an important node of the MumbaiAhmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, before heading to events commemorating the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda.
Digital tribal museum in Chhattisgarh sparks pride, connection among youth
RAIPUR: The countrys first digital tribal museum has begun evoking a deep sense of pride and historical connection among tribal youths, women, academicians and tourists. Indias first digital tribal museum, set up in New Raipur, the new capital city of Chhattisgarh, is generating excitement across communities. The recently inaugurated Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial & Digital Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum, opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has quickly become a major attraction. The museum features life-sized sculptures and vivid representations of tribal freedom fighters and their resistance against the British Empire. It serves as an inspiring source for tribal youth and local communities who may be unaware of their rich history. Divided into 17 immersive sections, the museum employs sound, light and digital projections to transport visitors into the world of Chhattisgarhs indigenous communities. Each display, whether showcasing village life, crafts or heroic resistance, offers a visual feast filled with colour and movement that captivates both casual tourists and serious researchers. For local villagers, these exhibits evoke a deep sense of pride and connection. Our ancestors stories of resistance against British colonialism inspire us, said Mahendra Netam, a tribal youth from the Sarguja region who now works as a bike taxi driver in Raipur. He stood in front of an exhibit depicting the 1857 tribal uprisings that swept through central India, where Adivasi leaders like Gend Singh and Veer Narayan Singh bravely fought against British oppression. In addition to documenting tribal resistance history, another section of the museum highlights the daily lives of tribal people, including their cultural practices, food, household chores and last rites. In one corner, a group of women gathered around a display showcasing the transformation of tribal households, from using fuelwood and clay stoves to adopting LPG cooking. The women observed the plaque with intrigued expressions, reflecting on their own changing lifestyles. These types of cooking vessels are still used in our village, said Sinita Goud, a young mother holding her infant, her eyes lighting up with recognition as she pointed to the gleaming bronze vessels. For many, the museum represents more than just an archive; it serves as a bridge between the past and the present. It celebrates resilience, adaptation and identity. By digitally documenting tribal history, everyday life and resistance movements, the museum ensures that the stories of Chhattisgarhs indigenous people are not only preserved but also retold in their own vibrant, proud and enduring voice. The museum was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 1 November. So far, over one lakh visitors have visited it since then. India is home to several museums dedicated to tribal history and culture. A prominent example is the State Tribal Museum in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, which focuses on tribal life in both Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Other significant sites include the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Museum in Ranchi (Jharkhand), dedicated to tribal freedom fighters; the Tribal Museum in Silvassa (Dadra & Nagar Haveli), showcasing local life; and the Tribal Research & Training Institute Museum in Pune, which preserves Maharashtras tribal heritage.
Chhattisgarh: 'Temporary' PMO May Function in Nava Raipur
State set to host 3-day DGP conference in Nov 28-30
After Four Years On The Run, Man Arrested In Chhattisgarh Over Virtual Marriage, Sexual Assault
In 2021, a woman claimed a man held a so-called virtual marriage with her and then sent another man on the honeymoon, which he watched over a video call.
Consistent ocular evidence sufficient to uphold POCSO conviction of accused: SC
NEW DELHI: Lending credence to the consistent and credible evidence of the child's (victims) parents, the Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the conviction of a man found guilty of committing aggravated sexual assault on a four-year-old girl, noting that these factors were sufficient to sustain the conviction despite the lack of medical evidence and eyewitness statement. It is well settled that the medical evidence will take a backseat and even if [it does] not corroborate with the ocular evidence, where the ocular evidence is consistent and cogent, the latter would be allowed to prevail, observed a Bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and N V Anjaria, adding that the trauma-filled behaviour of the victim upon seeing the appellant/petitioner (accused), coupled with her mothers consistent evidence, established the commission of the offence. The top court, while rejecting accused Rajesh Kumar Jaldharis appeal seeking acquittal based on the absence of medical evidence and eyewitness testimony, held that the consistent and credible statements of the childs parents were sufficient to sustain the conviction. The apex court also noted in its 14-page judgment that although Dr Priyanka Toppo (Prosecution Witness-6) did not find external injury marks on the victims body and stated that there was no bleeding of any kind, it still proceeded to uphold Jaldharis conviction, earlier awarded by the trial court and later affirmed by the High Court of Chhattisgarh. The Supreme Court further stressed that the victims frightened state upon seeing the accused was, in itself, a significant indicator. The whole sequence of events in course of recording of evidence of PW-1 (victim) was tale-telling. The shock related to the happening of the incident which continued with the victim post-incident made its statement in the trauma-filled behaviour of the victim who was a 4-year-old girl, it stated. While rejecting Jaldharis plea for leniency, the apex court said a vain attempt was made on behalf of the appellant to argue that there was no suggestion of, much less evidence of, penetration in the sexual assault and therefore the conviction and sentence were not justified. The Court is not impressed with this submission, given the facts and evidence on record, it added. Section 7 of the POCSO Act defines sexual assault and Section 8 prescribes the punishment for the said offence, which is imprisonment of either description for a term not less than three years and which may extend to five years, along with a fine. The offence of aggravated sexual assault is defined under Section 9. The punishment for aggravated sexual assault is prescribed under Section 10, which stipulates imprisonment for a term not less than five years and which may extend to seven years, along with a fine. In the present case, the appellant has been convicted under Section 9(m), with the trial court and the High Court having concurrently found that he had committed sexual assault on a child below 12 years, which falls under Section 9 read with Section 10, the Supreme Court noted. The evidence highlighted above go to establish the commission of offence. The appreciation of evidence of the trial court and consideration thereof by the High Court could be said to be eminently legal and proper, warranting no interference by this Court, the Supreme Court said.
Bijapur Operation: Maoist leaders Urmila, Buchanna among 6 killed by security forces
One of the most feared Maoist leaders Urmila, wife of senior operative Papa Rao, along with Buchanna Kudiyam, are among the six Naxalites, including three women insurgents, killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district.
Congress asks Election Commission to allow more time for SIR in Chhattisgarh
In six points, the Opposition party said there is a need to ensure transparency, and widespread public participation in the electoral roll revision, highlighting issues related to logistics and timing
ED attaches assets worth 61.2 crore belonging to Baghels son
The police investigation has revealed that Chhattisgarh liquor scam resulted in a massive loss to the State exchequer and filled the pockets of the beneficiaries with Proceeds of Crime (POC) generated by the commission of scheduled offences, worth more than 2500 crore
Two top Maoists commanders among six killed in Chhattisgarh encounter
Bijapur: Dreaded Maoist leaders Urmila, wife of senior operative Papa Rao, as well as Buchanna Kudiyam are among the six Maoists killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district on November 11, a police official said on Thursday. The six, who were gunned down in the forests of Kandulnar, and Kachlaram villages Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Six Maoists killed in Chhattisgarh carried total bounty of 27 lakh; includes two top ultras
The six, who were gunned down in the forests of Kandulnar, and Kachlaram villages in remote pockets of Indravati National Park area, carried a total bounty of 27 lakh, Bijapur Superintendent of Police Jitendra Yadav says
A shocking case from Jashpur, Chhattisgarh a man befriended a girl on social media, trapped her in a virtual marriage, and later blackmailed and exploited her. He even sent his friend for the wedding night while watching the act live. Both ...
Chhattisgarh emerges as Indias new logistics, mineral powerhouse with record copper export to China
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh has marked a major milestone by flagging off the countrys largest-ever copper concentrate export to China, a development that positions the state as a rising hub in Indias logistics and industrial landscape, government officials said. Scripting a new chapter in the countrys growth, a mega consignment of 12,000 metric tonnes of copper concentrate was dispatched from the Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in Nava Raipur. The first rake, carrying 2,200 metric tonnes, left for Visakhapatnam Port on November 11, from where it will be shipped to China. Developed under the Department of Industries, the Nava Raipur MMLP is fast emerging as Central Indias gateway to global markets. Equipped with advanced cargo-handling systems, integrated rail connectivity, and cost-effective multimodal operations, the facility ensures that industries across the region can access international markets seamlessly and efficiently. Chhattisgarh simultaneously continues to play a vital role in Indias mineral economy. Alongside copper, the state holds the unique distinction of being the sole producer of tin in the entire country. In fact, 100 per cent of Indias tin output comes from Chhattisgarh, which possesses about 35.83 per cent of the nations total tin ore reserves. With an estimated 30 million tonnes of tin deposits located primarily in Dantewada and Sukma districts, the state serves as a key supplier for industries that depend on this crucial mineral. Tin is an essential component in electronics, defence equipment, solar panels, and high-tech manufacturing, making Chhattisgarhs contribution vital to modern technological advancement. Over the past 25 years, Chhattisgarhs mining sector has achieved remarkable progress. When the state was formed in November 2000, mineral revenue stood at just 429 crore. Today, it has surged to 14,592 crore representing a 34-fold increase. The government has introduced the Chhattisgarh State Logistics Policy 2025 , a roadmap aimed at transforming the state into Indias leading logistics hub by 2047. The policy focuses on developing modern multimodal infrastructure, promoting exports, encouraging private investment, and creating large-scale employment opportunities through balanced regional development. The dispatch of Chhattisgarhs largest copper export consignment is not just a commercial event, it is a powerful stride toward an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), said Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai. Chhattisgarh has reinforced its image as one of Indias most efficient and strategically located trade and logistics hubs, affirmed a government spokesperson.
ED seizes assets worth Rs 61 crore of ex-CM Bhupesh Baghels son in Chhattisgarh liquor scam
NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) sleuths have attached assets worth 61.20 crore belonging to former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghels son, Chaitanya Baghel, in connection with the alleged 2,500 crore Chhattisgarh liquor scam, the agency said on Thursday. The attached assets include immovable properties comprising 364 residential plots and agricultural lands worth 59.96 crore. The present attachment of 61.20 crore is in continuation of earlier attachments of immovable properties valued at approximately 215 crore. The agency initiated its investigation based on an FIR registered by the Economic Offence Wing of Raipur Police in Chhattisgarh in connection with the liquor scam case. Police investigation has revealed that the alleged Chhattisgarh liquor scam resulted in a massive loss to the state exchequer and enriched the beneficiaries with more than 2,500 crore of proceeds of crime generated through the commission of scheduled offences. Investigation conducted under PMLA has revealed that Chaitanya Baghel, son of Bhupesh Baghel, was positioned at the apex of the liquor syndicate. His position as the Chief Ministers son made him the controller and ultimate authority of the liquor syndicate. He was responsible for maintaining the hisab (accounts) of all illicit funds collected by the syndicate. All major decisions relating to collection, channelisation, and distribution of such funds proceeds of crime were taken under his directions, the agency said in a statement. The probe further established that he was allegedly a recipient of the proceeds of crime, which he layered through his real estate business and projected as untainted assets. Chaitanya Baghel allegedly utilised the proceeds of crime generated from the liquor scam for the development of his real estate project Vitthal Green under his proprietorship concern, Baghel Developers. The agency arrested him on July 18, 2025, and he is presently in judicial custody. Earlier, in this case, former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, Arvind Singh, Trilok Singh Dhillon, Anwar Dhebar, Arun Pati Tripathi (ITS), and Kawasi Lakhma, MLA and then Excise Minister of Chhattisgarh, were arrested by the ED. Further investigation is under progress.
