The CRPF’s recent establishment of Gurukul schools in Sukma and Tekalgudem, Chhattisgarh—historically epicentres of Naxal violence—marks an inspiring transformation from conflict towards education, peace, and community upliftment.
Dawn of Hope in the Heart of Conflict
Until recently, areas like Puvarti and Tekalgudem were notorious for being strongholds of Maoist insurgency, with frequent violence, minimal government presence, and virtually no educational infrastructure. Puvarti, the native village of the infamous Naxal leader Hidma, and Tekalgudem, site of major CRPF casualties in 2021 and repeated resistance to development, symbolised these challenges.
In this difficult environment, the CRPF’s 150th Battalion started Gurukuls in these villages, offering free education, uniforms, books, sports facilities, and nutritious meals to more than 50 children from surrounding villages. The initiative rapidly gained popularity, with children regularly attending the modern classrooms, enjoying playgrounds, and being mentored by CRPF personnel who teach them discipline, values, peace, and compassion.
CRPF: Compassion Beyond Security
This effort goes far beyond a standard educational project. CRPF personnel have become mentors and guardians, fostering mutual respect and affection with the children. Officers describe their mission as bringing “smiles, education, and hope,” a clear shift from the sole focus on security to a broader vision of community transformation. The presence of CRPF camps—once met with resistance—now offers connection to government services and development, under schemes such as Niyad Nellanar.
The establishment of these Gurukuls is described as a “revolution of thought,” where knowledge triumphs over ignorance, peace over conflict, and unity over division. Each child learning to read or dream becomes a symbol of the shadow of Naxalism fading ever further.
Community and Administrative Collaboration
The Gurukuls are run collaboratively by CRPF, local police, and administration, with plans to gradually involve and train local teachers. Children are offered academic training as well as sports (volleyball, football, basketball), yoga, and holistic development activities. Meals, books, and sports equipment are provided, and the presence of security camps has enabled better infrastructure like roads and electricity for these villages.
Locals attest that before CRPF’s intervention, attempts to build schools were not just blocked but sometimes violently suppressed by Maoists. Now, there is daily attendance and optimism for future upgrades to higher classes.
Bharatiya Civilizational Significance
The concept of Gurukul is deeply rooted in Bharatiya civilization’s ancient traditions. Gurukuls were holistic centers of learning where students received not only academic education, but also values, life skills, and a strong sense of community. By naming these new schools ‘Gurukul,’ the CRPF reawakens the spirit of Bharatiya education: empowering youth to become responsible citizens through knowledge, discipline, and social harmony.
The approach reflects Bharat’s civilizational ethos—where transformation is achieved not through the sword, but through compassion and enlightenment. The Gurukul in Puvarti is thus a milestone not just in the fight against extremism, but also in realizing an inclusive vision rooted in peace and unity, echoing the ancient belief that education is the most powerful weapon against darkness.
Importance for Bharat’s Future
The opening of Gurukuls in Sukma and Tekalgudem stands as a testament to the role of education in national integration and peace-building. By reclaiming spaces once governed by fear and violence, Bharat demonstrates the strength and resilience of its democracy and civilization. It also sets a precedent for other conflict-prone areas—showing that lasting change is possible when communities, government, and security forces collaborate on the path of enlightenment and development.
These efforts reaffirm that education, rooted in Bharatiya values, is the true catalyst for social transformation—one that breaks the cycle of violence and builds the foundation for a peaceful, prosperous future.
