- In these areas, instead of the sound of gunfire, the sound of children studying in schools and the rustling of books can be heard.
A new awakening of education in Naxal-affected areas has been sparked by initiatives by the government and security forces. Model schools in remote areas, schemes like “Niyad Nella Naar,” and dedicated teachers are providing quality education to children who are now shaping their futures by speaking fluent English and learning technical skills. The light of education is now beginning to spread again in remote Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh. Due to the government’s sustained efforts and ongoing initiatives under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, closed schools in Sukma district have reopened, strengthening the education system. The sound of gunfire is now replaced by children learning the alphabet and the rustling of books in schools, signaling a bright and secure future.
- a dying education system
In the year 2006, due to Maoist influence and Salwa Judum movement, a total of 123 schools in Sukma district were closed, which included 101 primary and 21 secondary schools. Due to the continuous efforts of the administration, all these schools have now been reopened. Currently, there is not a single school in the district which is closed due to Naxal influence. Schools were once abandoned due to Naxal terror, now good governance has rekindled the spirit of education, giving support to hopes. Schools closed due to fear in Naxal-affected areas are reopening. Children who had dropped out of school are returning to school. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, the light of education is spreading in every direction of Bastar region.
- Significant improvement in infrastructure
Keeping in mind the expansion of education and better future of the students, the basic facilities have been strengthened in the district. At present, 16 Pota Cabins (residential schools) are operating, in which 6,722 students are studying. Along with this, 1,389 students are living and studying in 16 Pota Cabin hostels. 600 girl students are benefiting in 3 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya Type-3 (Class 6th to 12th) schools and 200 girl students are benefiting in 2 hostels of Type-4 (Class 9th to 12th).
- New beginning with “Niyad Nella Naar Scheme”
Under the “Niyad Nella Naar Scheme” in 2024-25, seven new primary schools have been opened in selected villages of Sukma district, enrolling 210 children so far. In view of future needs, the administration has proposed opening 19 more new schools, which will further expand the scope of education.
- A new story of change
These positive changes on the ground are not only shaping the future of children but also laying a new foundation for trust and development in Naxal-affected areas. The government has documented this transformation through “before” and “after” photographs.