Inspiring journey of Dantewada youth towards self-reliance

 A new ray of hope has now emerged in the lives of the youth of Dantewada, who once struggled with challenges. This change has come through a unique and unprecedented initiative at the center of which are Indian Institute of Management IIM Raipur, Dantewada District Administration and Chhattisgarh Government.

On June 13, 2025, when the Entrepreneurship Certificate Program Batch-2 concluded at IIM Raipur, not only certificates were distributed on the stage, but wings were given to the dreams of the youth. This two-month residential program, in which 50 selected youth from Dantewada were given in-depth education on various dimensions of industry, business and innovation.

The youth of Dantewada, who once lived amidst limited opportunities and unstable conditions, are now able to see a clear picture of their business dreams. Rakesh Yadav from Dantewada, who has received entrepreneurship training at IIM, says that this training taught me that Mahua and Tamarind from our forests can also become the basis of employment. Now I do not just dream, I have moved towards realizing them. Participants like Abhishek Gupta from Kirandul, Tejasv Kumar and Neelam Pandey from Bijapur said that the IIM training is proving to be a turning point in their lives. Shilpa Kumari, who is from Bacheli, said that through the training we not only learned the techniques of starting a business but we also got the knowledge of how we can become self-reliant by using the natural wealth of our region. These youth, who once struggled with the lack of resources, are now full of confidence due to the entrepreneurship training.

Dantewada district administration played an important role in the success of this program. This dream came true due to the initiative and constant guidance of Collector Shri Kunal Dudawat. The administration not only identified the youth, but also showed by sending them to institutes like IIM Raipur that if the thinking is changed, then circumstances can also change.

From 23rd April to 13th June, IIM Raipur not only trained these youth but also ignited the spark of leadership and innovation within them. Every aspect like business planning, marketing, branding, value addition, use of digital tools etc. was taught in a practical manner.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai met the youth during the training and encouraged them. He said that the youth of Bastar have immense energy. If they get the right direction and training, they can become an inspiration not only for themselves but for the entire state. The simple, practical and encouraging leadership of the Chief Minister filled the participants with new self-confidence.

This training program is not just a government scheme, but the foundation of Bastar's future. The region, which was once known for conflict and unrest, is now witnessing new businesses like Mahua-based industries, tamarind processing units, and local tourism. This is not just the story of 50 youths from Dantewada, but of the entire Bastar. A Bastar that has now risen above negative images and is becoming an example of entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and inclusive development. This collective effort of the district administration and IIM Raipur has proved that if the intention is clear and the guidance is accurate, every obstacle can be turned into an opportunity.