Patna: Chief minister Samrat Choudhary on Wednesday flagged off a special train carrying 1,100 people from 22 Maoist-free districts of Bihar to Ekta Nagar in Gujarat to participate in the National Unity Day celebrations at Statue of Unity on Oct 31. CM also interacted with the participants before their departure.Officials said the group was heading to Gujarat to attend the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas programme at Statue of Unity. National Unity Day is observed on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. According to a statement issued by the chief minister’s office, the initiative aims to promote national integration and highlight development in areas that were once affected by Maoists.Choudhary said the participation of people from Bihar’s Maoist-free districts would showcase the state’s progress and reinforce the message of national unity, peace and development. He said the event also aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat and a Maoist-free India.The chief minister’s office said Bihar was declared Maoist-free on March 31, 2026, and this achievement would be showcased during the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations in Gujarat.Officials said 1,100 rural participants from 22 Maoist-free districts and 206 personnel of the Bihar Special Task Force will attend the Oct 31 programme. The visit is expected to highlight Bihar’s efforts in curbing Maoists’ influence and promoting development and welfare initiatives in formerly affected areas.
