Former Naxal Member Scripts a Story of Transformation at Dantewada Livelihood College
Published on: April 06, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Raipur, India
After Bastar division was declared Naxal-free, visible positive changes are emerging in the lives of youths who have abandoned violence and returned to mainstream society. One such inspiring example is Sharmila Poyami from Bijapur, who once carried a weapon but is now shaping her future with a needle and thread at the Livelihood College in Dantewada.
Journey from Violence to Mainstream Society
Nineteen-year-old Sharmila, a resident of Bhairamgarh block in Bijapur district, was once an active member of the Bhairamgarh Area Committee. Having received training in guerrilla warfare and handling weapons, she soon realized that true progress could not be achieved through violence but through peace, education, and constructive opportunities.
With this realization, she made a life-changing decision and voluntarily surrendered on February 7, 2026, choosing to rejoin mainstream society.
Moving Toward Self-Reliance Through Skill Development
Under the state government’s rehabilitation policy, Sharmila was enrolled at the Livelihood College in Dantewada. For the past 45 days, she has been undergoing intensive tailoring training, learning advanced stitching techniques for modern garments such as suits and blouses.
After completing her training, she plans to return to her village and open a tailoring center. Alongside this, she intends to develop her family’s four-acre ancestral land through modern farming practices, including cultivation of tomatoes, radish, and vegetables, to strengthen her family’s economic stability.
Government Support Brings a Change in Perspective
Sharmila shared that after returning to the mainstream, she experienced government support and facilities for the first time. The Livelihood College provides nutritious meals regularly, including eggs, fish, chicken, and green vegetables, leading to significant improvement in her health.
Her growing confidence is reflected in her active participation in social activities. Recently, she also participated in a marathon organized in Jagdalpur. Her elder sister, Mudo Poyami — a former Naxal member — has also returned to mainstream society and is moving toward self-reliance, further motivating Sharmila’s journey.
Hope for Development in Remote Villages
Having understood the power of education and skills, Sharmila is now conscious of the developmental needs of her village. She hopes for early resolution of issues such as unpaved roads and drinking water shortages so that development reaches remote regions as well.
Sharmila Poyami’s transformation stands as a powerful symbol of a new Chhattisgarh moving steadily from violence toward development and opportunity.
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