Where the guns fell silent, the foundation of the future is being laid

35 surrendered Naxalites become masons through rehabilitation centre

Under the initiative of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Sukma’s rehabilitation policy becomes an inspiring model

Raipur, December 2025 : At the rehabilitation centre, 35 surrendered Naxalites became masons

Hands that once held guns now hold tools. Roads once shadowed by violence and fear are now paving the way for growth and trust. In alignment with the sensitive vision and clear intent of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, a new and positive picture of surrendered Naxalite rehabilitation has emerged in Sukma district. At the rehabilitation centre, 35 surrendered Naxalites have received professional masonry training, marking a concrete step towards making them self-reliant.

The training programme is being jointly implemented by the district administration and SBI RSETI. It includes 15 women and 20 men. They are being given systematic and phased training in necessary technical and practical skills related to construction—such as foundation building, brick masonry, plastering, roof casting, and quality standards—so they can efficiently take on any construction work.

This initiative goes beyond just employment training; it is becoming a powerful medium to reshape the lives of surrendered youth. After completing their training, these individuals will take part in building incomplete and new houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) in the district. This will not only provide them with steady and dignified employment, but also help address the long-standing shortage of skilled masons in Naxal-affected and remote areas.

Collector Devesh Dhruv described the initiative as a significant step toward social change, stating that the true meaning of surrender is not just laying down arms, but returning to the mainstream with dignity and self-reliance. He said the administration aims to provide the youth at the rehabilitation centre with skills, employment, and all essential facilities so they can live with respect.

District Panchayat CEO Mukund Thakur said skilled manpower is crucial for effective implementation of government construction projects, including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural). This training will connect surrendered youth with employment and social responsibility.

Rehab resident Podyum Bhima from Polampalli shared that he was associated with the organisation for nearly 30 years, but life has changed completely after surrendering. “There is good arrangement here for living and food. We are receiving mason training. Earlier, I also received electrician and mechanic training. Now I will be able to work with dignity.”

Muchaki Ranwati from Puvarti, who was associated with the organisation for 24 years, said she received sewing training after rehabilitation and is now being trained in masonry. “We reunited with our families, participated in the Bastar Olympics, and even won first prize. We are fully benefitting from government schemes.”

Gangā Vetti from Dabbamarka said life has completely changed after rehabilitation. “The district administration has given us mobile phones and masonry kits. Camps were held to provide Aadhaar cards, Ayushman cards, ration cards, and job cards. If we face any issue, the Collector and SP respond immediately.”

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the Chhattisgarh government is committed to establishing lasting peace in Naxal-affected areas through dialogue, compassion, and development. Equipping surrendered youth with skills, employment, and dignity—thereby connecting them to the mainstream—is the core purpose of the state’s rehabilitation policy.

The effort underway in Sukma to link surrendered youth with employment-oriented activities proves that with sensitive administration, trust, and development-driven policies, young people who once strayed into violence can be given a new identity and a better future. This is the true success of rehabilitation—and the strong foundation of lasting peace.