Is Dantewada, Once a Maoist Hotbed, Now a Beacon of Education?

Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reveals a stunning transformation in Maoist-affected regions of India, showcasing a collective fight that has paved the way for development, education, and sports. Discover how Dantewada, once rife with violence, is now becoming a symbol of hope and progress.
Key Takeaways
- Collective efforts are crucial for transformation in Maoist-affected areas.
- Education in Dantewada has seen remarkable improvements.
- The arrival of infrastructure like buses signals positive change.
- Local initiatives foster community engagement in sports and academics.
- These changes inspire national pride and hope for the future.
New Delhi, May 25 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday emphasized the remarkable transformation occurring in regions of India previously affected by Maoism. He attributed this progress to a united effort that has enabled development, education, and sports to thrive in areas once dominated by violence.
During his monthly radio broadcast, 'Mann Ki Baat', the Prime Minister highlighted various government initiatives that have contributed to restoring peace and instilling national pride.
He shared the story of a bus arriving in a remote village for the very first time, a moment that symbolizes a significant change in connectivity and access.
"While taking a bus may seem ordinary, let me tell you about a village where this has just happened for the first time. The people had been eagerly anticipating this moment for years, and when the bus finally arrived, they greeted it with drums," he remarked.
Reflecting on the joy of the villagers, PM Modi noted, "The excitement was palpable. Although there was a paved road, buses had never operated here before due to Maoist violence. This village, named Katezari, is located in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra."
He added, "The positive changes in Katezari are being felt across the entire region. Normalcy is quickly returning. Thanks to the collective fight against Maoism, basic amenities are now accessible. The villagers expressed that the arrival of the bus will significantly ease their daily lives."
Moreover, the Prime Minister pointed to the Bastar Olympics in Chhattisgarh and the establishment of science laboratories in Maoist-impacted regions as indicators of this positive evolution.
"The children here are passionate about science and excelling in sports. These initiatives reflect the resilience of the local population. Despite numerous challenges, they have chosen to pursue a path of improvement," he stated.
PM Modi also commended the outstanding academic achievements in Dantewada district, a place long recognized for its Maoist activity.
"I was thrilled to learn that the academic results for the 10th and 12th grades in Dantewada district have been extraordinary. With a passing rate of around 95 percent, this district topped the 10th results, while securing the 6th position in the 12th grade in Chhattisgarh," he noted.
"Just think about it—Dantewada, once a stronghold of Maoism, is now proudly waving the flag of education. Such transformations inspire immense pride in all of us," PM Modi concluded.