Youth Move Towards Self-Reliance After Leaving the Path of Violence

Youth who once took up weapons have now taken the road of self‑reliance through agriculture. A 15‑day skill training programme organised by the Sukma Agricultural Science Centre and the Agriculture Department under the guidance of the Sukma district administration provided surrendered youths with a new basis for livelihood. The training, held from 22 June to 14 July 2026, offered practical instruction in natural farming, modern agricultural techniques and agri‑based enterprises, aiming to connect surrendered youths with sustainable earnings and empower them economically. Experts taught preparation of seed‑anna, jeev‑anna, ghan‑jeev‑anna, neem‑astra, handi medicines, three‑G medicines and fish tonic, as well as use of Nadep fertilizer, worm compost, green manure and various natural farming methods. Participants also learned planting of fruit trees, production of nilharit algae, operation of farm equipment, setting up vegetable nurseries, row planting of paddy and deep ploughing in summer. In addition, training covered animal husbandry and other agri‑based businesses such as goat rearing, poultry, oyster mushroom cultivation and fish farming, enabling youths to start self‑employment according to their interests and resources. A study visit to Dantewada district, including a tour of Malawada, allowed participants to observe SR I rice planting methods and advanced natural farming techniques in Bhoomagadi, giving them hands‑on experience to apply the learned methods in their fields. At the closing ceremony, senior officials including Deputy Agricultural Officer P.R. Baghel, Assistant Officer Sudhir Kujur and senior scientist H.S. Tomar congratulated the trainees, emphasizing that farming, livestock and agri‑based enterprises form a strong foundation for the rural economy and can help surrendered youths improve their families’ economic status and gain respect in mainstream society. Trainees said they have acquired new knowledge of farming and self‑employment techniques and will use these skills to develop livelihood opportunities in their villages, pledging to become self‑reliant and lead dignified lives. This training marks a new beginning for surrendered youths, who have abandoned weapons and are now building their future through farming and self‑employment.