Chhattisgarh to Map Abujhmad Region for First Time Since Independence, Ties Up with IIT Roorkee
In a landmark initiative aimed at inclusive development, the Chhattisgarh government has partnered with IIT Roorkee to conduct the first-ever comprehensive mapping of the Abujhmad region. This densely forested and previously inaccessible area spans Narayanpur district and parts of south Bastar, extending into Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra.
Objective of the Mapping Project
The primary objective of this mapping project is to bring long-neglected tribal and remote communities into the mainstream. By enabling access to government welfare schemes, infrastructure projects, and administrative services, the initiative aims to uplift these communities.
Mapping 5,000 Square Kilometers of ‘Unknown Hills’
The mapping project will cover nearly 5,000 square kilometers of rugged terrain in Abujhmad, which translates to “unknown hills.” For decades, this region has remained largely unmapped due to its difficult terrain and the prolonged Maoist insurgency.
Once completed, the project will provide detailed revenue and administrative maps for the first time since India gained independence in 1947. These maps are expected to help the government establish land records, plan development projects, and deliver welfare benefits to villages that have remained beyond the reach of basic facilities.
Survey to Cover Over 240 Villages
The survey will span more than 240 villages over the next few years. A 70-member technical team has already been deployed and is expected to begin fieldwork shortly. The mapping will utilize geo-referencing techniques and high-resolution satellite imagery to ensure accurate and detailed data collection.
The data generated from this project will support:
- Infrastructure planning
- Road connectivity
- Health services
- Education facilities
- Land ownership documentation
Improved Security Enables Development Push
This ambitious project has become feasible due to improved security conditions in the region. Over the past few years, security forces have established strategic bases in former Maoist strongholds such as Kutul, Kodnad, and Lanka. This has allowed administrative agencies to enter areas that were once dominated by insurgents.
With the Maoist influence steadily declining due to targeted security operations, the state administration is now accelerating development initiatives and welfare outreach for local residents who have long been deprived of essential services.
Chief Minister’s Statement
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has described the mapping initiative as a major breakthrough for the region. He stated, “There is no revenue map of this area. With Maoist dominance shrinking rapidly, it is now finally possible to conduct a proper survey. This will be a big step forward, as mapping will allow government schemes to reach the people living here.”
Nationwide Push Against Maoist Insurgency
The mapping project is part of a broader nationwide effort against Maoist insurgency. Security operations against Maoist groups across the country have seen significant success over the last two to three years. The campaign is expected to intensify further, with the Union government aiming for the complete elimination of Naxal insurgency by March, as announced earlier by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The Abujhmad mapping project is being viewed as a crucial step in transforming security gains into long-term development and stability in the region.
Conclusion
The mapping of the Abujhmad region represents a significant advancement in the efforts to integrate remote tribal communities into the broader socio-economic framework of the country. By providing essential services and infrastructure, the initiative has the potential to improve the quality of life for thousands of residents who have long been marginalized.
Note: The successful implementation of this project will depend on continued security improvements and the commitment of both state and central governments to support development initiatives in these remote areas.
