Inspiring Journey Toward Self-Reliance for the Youth of Dantewada
Raipur, 16 June
A new ray of hope has dawned in the lives of the youth of Dantewada, who once struggled with numerous challenges. This change has come through a unique and unprecedented initiative centered around the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, the Dantewada district administration, and the Government of Chhattisgarh.
On 13 June 2025, when the second batch of the Entrepreneurship Certificate Program concluded at IIM Raipur, it was not just certificates that were handed out on the stage, but wings were given to the dreams of the youth. This two-month residential program provided 50 selected youth from Dantewada with in-depth education on various aspects of industry, business, and innovation.
The youth of Dantewada, who once lived amid limited opportunities and unstable conditions, can now clearly envision their entrepreneurial dreams. Rakesh Yadav from Dantewada, who completed the entrepreneurship training at IIM, said that the program taught him that the mahua and tamarind from our forests can also be the basis for employment. “Now I don’t just dream, I am moving towards making those dreams a reality.” Participants like Abhishek Gupta from Kirandul, Tejasv Kumar from Bijapur, and Neelam Pandey shared that IIM’s training has become a turning point in their lives. Shilpa Kumari from Bacheli said the training not only taught them the techniques to start a business but also gave them the knowledge of how to utilize their region’s natural wealth to become self-reliant. These youths, who once struggled with a lack of resources, are now filled with confidence through entrepreneurship training.
The Dantewada district administration played a crucial role in the success of this program. Through the initiative and continuous guidance of Collector Mr. Kunal Dudawat, this dream was realized. The administration not only identified the youth but also sent them to prestigious institutions like IIM Raipur, proving that a change in mindset can lead to changed circumstances.
From 23 April to 13 June, IIM Raipur did more than just provide training; it ignited the spark of leadership and innovation within these youths into a blazing flame. Practical training was provided on every aspect including business planning, marketing, branding, value addition, and the use of digital tools.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai met the youth during the training and encouraged them. He said that the youth of Bastar possess boundless energy. With the right direction and training, they can become an inspiration not only for themselves but for the entire state. The Chief Minister’s approachable, practical, and motivational leadership instilled new confidence among the participants.
This training program is not just a government scheme but the foundation for Bastar’s future. The region once known for conflict and unrest is now seeing the emergence of new businesses such as mahua-based industries, tamarind processing units, and local tourism. This story is not just about the 50 youth of Dantewada but the entire Bastar region—a Bastar that is rising above negative images to become an example of entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and inclusive development. The collective efforts of the district administration and IIM Raipur have proven that with clear intent and precise guidance, every obstacle can be turned into an opportunity.