Development and not violence has future : Modi tells Dantewada rally

"There is no future in violence. If there is a future, it is in peace," he said while addressing a public meeting in Dantewada, a stranglehold of the underground Maoists.

"This is probably the first time in Bastar's history that projects worth Rs.24,000 crore have been signed in just one hour...I can imagine what this will do for the development of Bastar," he said referring to the steel plant which he inaugurated in mineral rich region's Dilimi area.

After becoming Prime Minister this  is Modi's first visit to Bastar which for decades witnessed unabated militant activities resulting in the death of hundreds of security personnel in guerrilla ambush.

Despite being rich in natural resources, a vast population of local tribals live below the poverty line providing the support base of Maoists.

Modi said "some people" were happy keeping people poor, "Now when change is happening, they can't digest it."

He said the "Naxal activities would be fought", but hoped that those indulging in violence would change. "I am sure that humanity exist in people who indulge in such activities will change."

I"t is a plough on the shoulders that can bring development, not guns," the PM said.

"The adivasis of this area, which has the blessing of Mother Danteshwari, have taught the world how to live...People know that employment is of prime importance. They can build a house, educate their children, etc, only if they are employed."

"Wherever one goes, people will say, "Do anything but ensure that our children get jobs....No parent wants their child to go far only to live in slums in cities."

"That's why it is the government's responsibility to bring development to everyone," Modi said adding the Bastar region has had coal and iron ore and it has also had people. "At present you send iron out and get steel from outside. This has to stop. We will make steel from iron ore here."

He said India should get rail connectivity all across for faster and better transportation.

Explaining his government's Jan Dhan Yojana, Modi said it is a way to empower each individual and bring them at par with the country's mainstream.

"The fruits of development must reach the poorest of the poor...jobs for the yout are at the core of our policies," he said.

Stressing the need for creating employment opportunities, the PM said skill development is critical which even "development and happy nations" are laying emphasis on.