Chhattisgarh Ex-Maoists ' Future-Changing Story:  The very hands that once wielded AK-47s and spread fear now hold books, as these individuals script a new story to transform their lives. Three youths from the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, formerly associated with a Maoist organisation, have passed their Class 10 examinations with a first-division grade after renouncing violence and surrendering.

Geeta Narote (35-year-old), Arjun Oyam (32-year-old), and Santosh Achla (31-year-old) have cleared the Class 10 examination conducted by the Chhattisgarh State Open School. Due to their past association with the Maoist organisation, neither of them had previously been able to complete their formal education. Now, having joined the mainstream, they are focused on pursuing their studies and achieving new career goals.

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How Many Former Maoists Have Joined the Mainstream?

Last year, 210 former Maoists in Bastar, Chhattisgarh surrendered and joined the mainstream under the government's rehabilitation scheme. According to Bastar Police, seven of them cleared the Class 10 examination, with three securing first division.

What Do They Want to Become Now?

Geeta Narote, who was earlier a member of the Maoist divisional committee, wants to become a nurse and serve society. "I could not study when I was young. Now, I do not want to lose this opportunity and want to make the most of it,"

she said. Oyam and Achala had studied at a Maoist political school but resumed education in a democratic environment after rehabilitation. Oyam wants to return to his village as a teacher and inspire children to pursue education, while Achala aims to become a businessman and farmer after higher studies.

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What Support Is the Administration Providing?

The Chhattisgarh administration stated that under the rehabilitation scheme, former Maoists and individuals previously involved in Maoist activities are being provided with education, along with the necessary study resources and a conducive learning environment. Study materials are distributed free of charge at rehabilitation centers, and other facilities are made available to support their education.

According to the Bastar Police, 210 former Maoists surrendered in Bastar in 2025 and joined the mainstream under the government's rehabilitation scheme. Seven of them passed the Class 10 examination, with three securing a first division.