School Bells Ring Again After 21 Years: Bastar’s Pidiya Welcomes a New Era of Education

Parents, villagers, and students gather to celebrate the reopening of schools in Pidiya during the Pravesh Utsav, marking a new chapter of peace, learning, and opportunity in Bijapur district”-Photo Credit -channel24india.com via CG/PR

539 Children Return to Classrooms as 11 Long-Closed Schools Reopen in Bijapur

Raipur, In a powerful symbol of Bastar’s transformation, the Chhattisgarh government has reopened 11 schools in the Pidiya region of Bijapur district after a gap of 21 years, restoring access to education for 539 children across 11 villages on Wednesday July 1, 2026 .

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the reopening of these schools marks more than the revival of educational institutions—it reflects the return of peace, trust, and development to an area once severely affected by Left Wing Extremism. Children who previously had to travel long distances—or remained out of school altogether—can now pursue their education in their own villages.

A Joyous Beginning with Pravesh Utsav

The reopening was celebrated with a Pravesh Utsav (School Enrollment Festival), where children received a warm welcome into their classrooms. District Panchayat President Janaki Korsa inaugurated the programme by offering prayers to Goddess Saraswati.

“A new beginning after 21 years: Children in Pidiya village receive school bags and learning materials as 11 long-closed schools reopen, bringing education and hope back to Bastar.”-Photo credit -channel24india.comVia CG/PR

Teaching volunteers were provided with registers and educational materials, while newly enrolled students received school bags, notebooks, pens, and slates. The children were welcomed with traditional tilak, sweets, and words of encouragement, creating a festive atmosphere filled with hope and enthusiasm.

The event witnessed active participation from public representatives, parents, teachers, and villagers, reflecting the community’s collective commitment to education.

Education Returns to 11 Villages

The schools, which had remained closed for years due to Maoist violence, have resumed operations in the villages of Pidiya, Pedapal, Chhotegotodi, Kuem, Madpal, Andri, Idenar, Donditumnar, Mirgan Ghotul, Gampur, and Tamodi.

With schools functioning once again, children no longer need to travel to distant locations for basic education, making learning safer, more accessible, and more inclusive.

37 Closed Schools Revived This Year

According to District Education Officer Rajesh Pandey, the district administration has reopened 37 previously closed schools during the current academic year under a special campaign. These include 20 primary schools and 17 upper primary schools.

The administration is also strengthening infrastructure by ensuring school buildings, drinking water facilities, electricity, and other essential amenities are available to create a conducive learning environment.

Education for Every Child

Collector Vishwadeep said that ensuring education reaches every child remains the district administration’s highest priority. He noted that schools are being reopened in a phased manner in areas where peace and normalcy have been restored, ensuring that no child is deprived of the opportunity to learn.

A New Identity for Bastar

The reopening of schools in Pidiya after more than two decades reflects the changing face of Bastar. Villages once associated with fear and uncertainty are now echoing with the laughter of children, the sound of school bells, and the promise of a brighter future.

The initiative demonstrates how sustained efforts toward peace, good governance, and development are transforming Bastar into a region where education is once again becoming the foundation for progress and opportunity.