Sukma (Chhattisgarh) [India], January 20 (HBTV): The Naxal-affected Sukma district of Chhattisgarh is witnessing a gradual shift towards development, with the district administration undertaking efforts to improve livelihoods through the ‘Aam Bagicha project’.
Under the initiative, changes are becoming visible in villages located deep inside forest areas, where livelihood opportunities were earlier limited. The orchard-based programme aims to supplement incomes by encouraging fruit cultivation, with the administration seeking to create sustainable sources of earning for rural households.
Sukma Collector Devesh Kumar Dhruv said the initiative is being implemented in line with directives from the Chhattisgarh government and aligns with the central government’s Lakhpati Didi programme. ‘As per the directions of the state government, we are working continuously to enhance the livelihoods of people in the area. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has given clear instructions in this regard. Our focus is to strengthen income opportunities for people living in rural regions,’ he said.
The Collector added that the Aam Bagicha project is intended to help residents generate income beyond traditional agricultural activities. Given Sukma’s suitability for mango and other seasonal fruit cultivation, local communities have been encouraged to utilise available land for planting mango, coconut, lemon and other fruit varieties.
Local resident Markam Dula said officials visited villages and explained the benefits of fruit cultivation, following which villagers agreed to participate in the initiative. He said the administration provided support for fencing, borewells, transformers and other essential infrastructure. According to him, around 350 hybrid fruit saplings have been planted across approximately eight acres, and after two years, the orchards are nearing the fruit-bearing stage.
Another local resident, Madkam Santu, said villagers are receiving continuous support from the government and local administration and are taking care of the planted saplings. He said the initiative has proved beneficial for the community and has generated optimism about improved income prospects.
The district administration said the project reflects sustained efforts to promote livelihood generation and economic stability in one of the state’s most insurgency-affected regions.
(ANI)