Bastar, May 18: The forests of Bastar, once synonymous with security operations and Naxal-affected zones, are set to witness a historic transformation as Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurates the "Jan Jan Suvidha Kendra" model from Netanar on Monday. The initiative marks a shift from a security-centric approach to a development-driven model, bringing essential services directly to remote tribal communities.
Prepared by the Chhattisgarh government, the initiative aims to convert selected security camp premises into integrated public service centres offering multiple government services under one roof. Villages that have historically faced challenges in accessing administrative offices, banking, healthcare, and digital services are expected to benefit the most.
During his two-day visit to Chhattisgarh from May 18 to 19, Amit Shah will inaugurate the model, coinciding with the Centre’s goal of achieving a "Naxal-free India" by March 31.
Under this model, the centres will provide Common Service Centre (CSC) facilities, including Aadhaar updates, banking services, income, caste, and domicile certificate applications, ration card services, Ayushman Bharat cards, e-Shram registration, electricity bill payment, online applications, and railway and bus ticket bookings. Printing, scanning, and other digital services will also be offered.
Officials noted that the model is expected to significantly improve access for tribal communities living in remote villages, who currently travel long distances for basic services. "If essential services such as banking, Aadhaar, ration cards, healthcare, and pensions become available near their villages, it will save people both time and money while reducing hardship," said a government spokesperson.
The initiative also aims to accelerate digital inclusion in Bastar, connecting previously underserved areas with government schemes and online services, reducing dependence on middlemen, and ensuring transparent welfare delivery.
Healthcare services will be another key focus, with the centres offering primary healthcare, vaccination facilities, maternal and child healthcare support, nutrition programs, and malaria control services. For villagers far from hospitals, the initiative could be life-changing, particularly for pregnant women, children, and the elderly.
In addition to administrative and healthcare services, the centres will support skill development training, employment guidance, agricultural advisory services, PM-Kisan assistance, and information related to forest produce and forest rights. They are expected to become hubs for livelihood generation and self-reliance.
Other facilities at the centres will include fair price shops, drinking water access, internet connectivity, community halls, primary schools, and Ashram hostels, effectively creating comprehensive rural development hubs.
The project will be implemented in phases, starting with camps that have reduced operational requirements. Infrastructure upgrades such as electricity, water, internet, and sanitation will be undertaken, followed by the integration of multiple departmental services. Local youth and self-help groups will also be involved in operations and management.
The launch of the "Jan Jan Suvidha Kendra" model is being seen as symbolic of Bastar’s transformation, where areas once dominated by security deployments are now emerging as centres for development, education, healthcare, and public welfare. The initiative represents not just administrative reform but a broader effort to connect remote forest villages with India’s mainstream development journey.
