Chhattisgarh govt turns former Naxal-hit areas into tourist hubs

With Chhattisgarh having nearly eliminated its decades-old Naxal presence, the state government is stepping up tourism infrastructure. Jashpur district, where Left-wing extremism ended more than a decade ago, has reimagined itself as a destination where tourists can experience tribal culture up close.

Through a community-led tourism model in Kere village of Jashpur, homestays run by self-help groups are becoming a major attraction. The initiative has helped tribal communities develop a sense of ownership while generating income.

Recently, astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla visited one of the homestays.

“Exceptional experience. Great hospitality. This is the best food you will ever have,” Shukla said after visiting the homestay.

The annual Jashpur Jamboree festival has helped open up the region to visitors while keeping ownership, income and decision-making with local communities.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai this year inaugurated an adventure zone and unveiled three tourism circuits in the Jashpur region. The three circuits — spiritual and heritage, nature and wildlife, and adventure tourism — are now set to attract visitors.

“The region is mineral-rich. Jashpur has huge reserves of bauxite. The rugged terrain, dominated by dense forests, remained unexplored. The temperature during summer is not intense, making it suitable for tourists to explore the richness of the region. There is no fear of Naxals here now. Rock climbing and motor boating are gaining prominence. The locals now have a sense of ownership and are getting employed,” an official with the district administration told The Tribune.

The rocky terrain of Jashpur is now also home to tea gardens. Tea cultivation and production in the district are fully operated by tribal women.