For years, large parts of Chhattisgarh remained under the shadow of Naxalism, where violence and fear disrupted basic services like healthcare and education. But today, a visible change is happening on the ground—schools that were once deserted are now buzzing with children, and teachers are returning to classrooms without fear. As Naxalite influence weakens, education is finally getting the space to grow in the remote and tribal regions of the state.

I chose to write about this topic because this is not just a development story—this is about real hope for lakhs of children who were denied their right to learn for decades. Education and peace go hand in hand, and what we are seeing in Chhattisgarh today is proof of that. As someone who believes that education can break cycles of poverty and violence, I feel it’s important to highlight how even in the most conflict-hit areas, when the right support comes in, change is possible. We often hear about the impact of Naxalism, but rarely do we talk about how education can fight back silently, steadily, and successfully. That’s why this deserves more attention.

Chhattisgarh’s Naxal-Affected Areas See Rising School Enrolments

In areas like Sukma, Dantewada, and Bijapur—once considered Naxal hotbeds—children are now seen walking to school with backpacks instead of being stuck indoors due to fear. With security forces regaining control and roads being built, access to schools has improved significantly. Local teachers, many of whom earlier refused postings in these areas, are now reporting to duty regularly.

According to the Chhattisgarh Education Department, school enrolment numbers in the Naxal-hit districts have improved steadily over the past 3 to 5 years. The state government’s push to open schools closer to tribal settlements and create safe zones for students and staff is showing results.

Why Education Was the First Casualty of Conflict

For decades, Naxalism stalled progress in these interior tribal regions. Schools were burned down, teachers were threatened, and attendance was negligible. Parents feared sending their children outside the village, and many kids were either pulled into domestic work or targeted by extremist propaganda.

Key reasons why education suffered in these regions:

• Lack of road connectivity and infrastructure
• Constant threat to teachers and students from Naxalites
• Destruction of school buildings and learning centres
• Poor communication between local administration and tribal communities
• No role models or career awareness among tribal youth

What’s Changing on the Ground

Now that the security situation has improved, the state government and local NGOs are trying to rebuild the education system block by block. Some of the visible changes include:

• Mobile schools and bridge courses for children who missed years of schooling
• Recruitment of local youth as assistant teachers, especially from tribal communities
• Introduction of bilingual education, using tribal languages in primary classes to ease learning
• Hostel facilities for students in remote villages, so they don’t have to walk long distances
• Focus on mid-day meals and healthcare to reduce dropout rates

The recent launch of CM School of Excellence and other such schemes in these districts are helping bring quality education to even the most backward regions.

Real-Life Stories of Change

In a village in Dantewada, 11-year-old Aarti is now studying in Class 5 and dreams of becoming a police officer. Just a few years ago, her school was locked for months due to Naxal activity. Today, thanks to improved security and NGO support, not only is the school open, but children like her are also getting counselling and support for higher studies.

In Bijapur, a local teacher named Mahendra tells how he had once considered quitting due to the threats, but now teaches with confidence and even helps older tribal youth prepare for Class 10 exams through weekend classes.

Education vs Extremism: What This Means for the Future

Education is not just about literacy. In conflict zones like Chhattisgarh, it plays a key role in giving people the power to question violence and seek better lives. With more children in schools, fewer young people are being lured by extremist ideologies.

Here’s how education weakens Naxalism:

• Promotes critical thinking and reduces blind faith in armed ideologies
• Empowers girls and women to step out of fear
• Creates job opportunities and reduces dependency on illegal networks
• Builds trust between the state and local communities

What More Needs to Be Done

Even though the situation is improving, a lot still needs attention:

• More permanent teachers and reduction of contract-based hires
• Building proper roads and digital infrastructure in interior villages
• Regular monitoring of schools to prevent dropouts
• Training for teachers on how to deal with trauma and disrupted learning
• Greater focus on vocational education and career guidance for tribal youth