Niyad Nellanar scheme brings basic facilities to remote Naxal-affected tribal villages of Bijapur

RAIPUR: Dumripalanar Village, nestled in the remote forested interiors of the Naxal-affected tribal Bijapur district of the Bastar region, has long suffered from a lack of basic amenities. However, under a new scheme, these villages are now witnessing a transformation with the provision of essential facilities and seamless access to government schemes.

The Niyad Nellanar scheme, being implemented in these regions, is playing a pivotal role in this endeavor. This initiative has led to increased government presence in the villages, with officials making frequent visits, thereby boosting the confidence of residents and encouraging them to voice their needs openly.

District Collector Anurag Pandey elaborated on the Niyad Nellnar Scheme, translating to 'Your Own Village', which aims to provide facilities and benefits to villages within a kilometer radius. Additionally, the establishment of 14 new security camps will further facilitate the implementation of this scheme. Under Niyad Nellnar, approximately 25 basic amenities will be extended to the nearby villages, similar to those provided under the Centre’s Prime Minister Janman program, designed to uplift vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs).

Efforts under this scheme have led to an enhanced government presence, fostering increased engagement between forest dwellers and government representatives. The villagers have expressed demands for proper roads and ration facilities to the Chief Minister.

For decades, many villages in Bijapur district remained isolated from development due to Naxal activities. However, the introduction of security camps and the Niyad Nellnar Yojana have brought renewed hope to these communities. By focusing on five villages around each security camp, the government is swiftly providing basic amenities, such as housing, hospitals, drinking water, electricity, roads, bridges, and schools, under 32 welfare and development schemes, aimed at improving living standards.

Villagers, previously reliant on contaminated water from the Bailadila hills, now have access to clean drinking water through newly installed hand pumps. The road to Dumripalnar village is witnessing improvements, instilling hope among villagers for further development.

Additionally, the School Phir Chale Abhiyan (Back to School Campaign) has generated enthusiasm, with villagers constructing hut-like structures for children using local resources. The resumption of school sessions marks a significant milestone after 20 years since the Salwa Judum campaign.

Although the Salwa Judum campaign faced criticism for human rights abuses and was declared unconstitutional by India's Supreme Court in 2011, the region still grapples with violence and conflict, highlighting the ongoing challenges.

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