Institution for Chhattisgarh's naxalism-affected kids

Raipur, May 15 (UNI) The Chhattisgarh government will soon set up a fully residential educational institution at a cost of Rs 2 crore, from nursery to higher secondary level, on the lines of public schools for educating about tribal children forced to take refuge in relief camps due to naxalism.

''This gurukul-like institution, to become operational this fiscal, will be located in a secure and easily-accessible area of Dantewada district. The students will receive free food, clothing, books etc from the government,'' the state's Secretary (Tribal Welfare) M K Raut told UNI here today.

In the initial phase a survey found 1,300 children eligible for the institution. Dantewada, which is worst-affected by naxalism, witnessed the launching of an anti-rebel 'Salwa Judum' (Peace Mission) campaign about two years back. Consequently, apprehension of violence forced about 60,000 tribal villagers to take refuge in camps. The state government drew flak over the fact that the children were deprived of education.

UNI