Insurgency to infrastructure: Sukma’s surrendered Maoists learn masonry - The Times of India

Raipur: In the same forests where gunfire once echoed, the foundations of a new future are now being laid. In Sukma, one of the most insurgency-affected districts of Chhattisgarh, 35 surrendered Maoists living in a rehabilitation centre are being trained as masons. The course covers foundational construction techniques, bricklaying, plaster work, roof casting and quality standards, preparing participants to work independently in building projects across the region. Officials say the initiative represents far more than skilling. Once trained, these youths will contribute to the construction of incomplete and new houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural). This not only ensures them a stable livelihood but also helps address the long-standing shortage of skilled masons in remote, conflict-hit pockets of Bastar, they said.Expressing the sense of responsibility towards surrendered cadres, CM Sai said such initiatives will help in lasting peace through dialogue and development. "Providing skills, employment and dignity to surrendered youth is the core of rehabilitation policy," he said.The district administration, in partnership with SBI-RSETI (Rural Self Employment Training Insti), is conducting a structured masonry training programme for 15 women and 20 men. For many participants, the shift is deeply personal.Podyam Bhima of Polampalli, who spent nearly 30 years with the CPI (Maoist), says surrender changed everything. "The arrangements here are good. We are being trained as masons, and earlier I was trained as an electrician too. Now I can work with dignity."Muchaki Ranwati from Puvarti, associated with the organisation for 24 years, said rehabilitation brought long-awaited stability. "I received tailoring training earlier; now I'm learning masonry. I reunited with my family, participated in the Bastar Olympics too." Gangaa Vetti from Dabbamarka said her life has "completely changed" after entering the programme. "We got us mobile phones and masonry tool kits."Sukma Collector Devesh Dhruv called the programme a crucial step towards social transformation. "Surrender is not just about giving up arms. It means gaining self-reliance and returning to society with dignity. Our effort is to provide every youth in the rehabilitation centre with skills, livelihood support and essential services so they can rebuild their lives," he said.CEO, Zila Panchayat, Mukund Thakur added that skilled manpower is essential for timely execution of govt construction schemes. "This training will connect surrendered youths with meaningful employment and social responsibility," he said.Around 75 surrendered cadres were given 5G smartphones, equipped with a 50-megapixel dual camera and a 5000 mAh fast-charging battery. Officials said the devices will help these youths access digital education, skill development courses, govt schemes and news.