From Fear of Maoists to Future of Chhattisgarh: Education returns to Abujhmarh's forgotten village

RAIPUR: The primary school at remote Irkabhatti village of insurgency-hit Abujhamarh region in Chhattisgarh, once desolate and locked up, has come alive again with the chatter of children and the sound of lessons being taught.

This village in Narayanpur district in Bastar division, which was long silenced due to Maoist violence, is now witnessing a hopeful resurgence of education. Irkabhatti was one such village where, despite the villagers’ efforts to improve their lives, basic needs like education remained out of reach.For years, the impact of Maoist activities had dimmed the colours of village life, books slipped from children’s hands, schoolyards stood deserted, and even the rhythmic beat of the mandaar drums faded away.

Irkabhatti was one such village where, despite the villagers’ efforts to improve their lives, basic needs like education remained out of reach.This was made possible under the ‘Niyad Nella Nar’ (“Your Good Village”) scheme and focused strategic efforts of state govt.Ramsay Kakadam, a local resident, shared, “Earlier, we thought our children might never even know the name of a school. But now, with teachers appointed and the school reopened, it feels like the village has come back to life.”

The ‘Niyad Nella Nar’ initiative has sparked new hope in remote, conflict-affected villages like Irkabhatti, particularly those within a 5-kilometer radius of security camps, where government schemes are being implemented effectively. In Irkabhatti, road connectivity and electricity have arrived, and after years of closure, the primary school doors have been opened once again.Two regular teachers, Ashok Bhagat and Leela Netam, have been posted at the school.

They not only educate the children but also motivate parents to send their kids to school regularly.Teacher Leela Netam said, “At first, we were scared to come here. But the children’s smiles erase all fears. These children are very intelligent—they just needed a chance. Every day, we try to teach them something new. Today, more than a dozen children are studying here. Little hands hold books, and in their eyes are dreams of the future.

Earlier, people were afraid even to send their children to school; now, parents come carrying their kids on their shoulders to drop them off.”The village elder Mangtu Bai, with tears of joy in her eyes, said, “Now our granddaughter can study and become an officer. We never imagined we would see this day.”The story of Irkabhatti is not just about one village but thousands like it, once engulfed in neglect and insecurity. Now, thanks to schemes like ‘Niyad Nella Nar’ and strategic governance, rays of hope have dawned in their lives. The flame of education has been rekindled—and this time, it is here to stay.