From guns to guest service: 30 Maoists who laid down arms get hospitality training in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR: Imagine the hands that once carried guns and fired shots at the faintest rustle in the dense forests of Bastar now folding quilts, making beds, and serving guests at hotels across Chhattisgarh.

Thirty surrendered cadres have traded their olive uniforms for crisp hotel attire, beginning a new chapter of peace, dignity, and livelihood.Having given up violence over the past two years on different occasions, this batch of 30 is undergoing a three-month-long training programme at a livelihood college in Bastar’s Adawal region near Jagdalpur. They are expected to be employed at hotels, homestays, and resorts in the state’s first-ever campus selection for former Maoists.An officer overseeing the programme said the initiative aims not only to equip them with employable skills but also to bridge the emotional and social gap between conflict and peace, giving the former young cadres a chance to rebuild their lives and contribute to the region’s growing hospitality and eco-tourism sector.“These youths once lived in fear and isolation. Now, they are learning communication, hospitality, and service — skills that open the door to a peaceful and creative future,” the officer said.

From Conflict to ConfidenceOnce trudging through dense forests with guns slung over their shoulders, these young men and women now walk confidently through classrooms and practice hotel lobbies — learning to greet guests, manage front desks, and handle service with a smile.The training includes modules on customer interaction, hygiene, front-office operations, soft skills, and communication. Each participant receives a stipend during the training.How the Batch Was ChosenSpeaking to TOI, Bastar range inspector general of police P Sundarraj said the participants were chosen based on interest and choice during their rehabilitation process.“Skill training batches are running across all seven districts in Bastar division, from tailoring and carpentry to electrical and construction work. These 30 cadres voluntarily opted for hospitality, saying they wanted to serve and learn,” the IG said.“They come from different backgrounds — some had been working at transit camps after surrender. Once a batch reaches full strength, they are sent for training. We’ve already spoken informally with hotels in Jagdalpur and nearby tourist hubs for placements. For the first time, campus interviews will be held for surrendered Maoists. Depending on mutual willingness, hotels are keen to absorb them.”It is heartening to note that the rehabilitated cadres have opted for skill development training in hotel management and hospitality.

Their decision reflects a meaningful step towards self-reliance and a dignified livelihood, the IG said, adding that the initiative not only empowers them with employable skills but also serves as an inspiring example for others who wish to return to the mainstream.Trainers said that while most former cadres had no formal schooling, they showed exceptional enthusiasm and grasped concepts quickly. “We start with basic literacy, but they pick up fast — they are sharp, observant, and eager to change,” said an officer.“Once they start earning, we’ll also help them pursue formal education,” the IG added.For many, the change has been emotional. “Life in the forest was full of fear and loss. Here, I’ve learned what real freedom feels like,” said Ramu (name changed), a former cadre from Bijapur, now enrolled in the hospitality programme. “I want to work hard and give my family a good life.”Path to ReintegrationJob placement assistance is planned at resorts, eco-tourism centres, and homestays across Chitrakote, Tirathgarh, Kanger Valley, and Dantewada — all part of Bastar’s expanding tourism landscape.Officials said the effort is about breaking the cycle of alienation that once drew young people into extremism. The participants are gradually reintegrating into mainstream society with dignity and purpose.Where once the echo of gunfire dominated Bastar’s forests, today those same spaces reverberate with the sound of trainees greeting mock guests: “Good morning, sir. Welcome to Bastar.”This initiative is part of the state’s new ‘Naxalite Surrender, Victim Relief, and Rehabilitation Policy 2025’ and the Chief Minister’s Skill Development Scheme, aimed at building a Naxal-free and self-reliant Bastar.