From guns to gadgets: Smartphones putting Maoists in Chh'garh on defensive

In the dense Maoist insurgency-hit forests of Bastar in Southern Chhattisgarh, smartphones have emerged as a powerful tool reshaping the lives of the region's youth and weakening the Maoist grip on local communities.

- SHISHIR ROY CHOWDHURY

While these devices are transforming their aspirations, they are simultaneously disrupting the operational strategies of Maoist insurgents.

The proliferation of smartphones, bolstered by expanding mobile networks, has not only empowered local communities but also become a strategic asset for security forces combating left-wing extremism.

The expanding reach of mobile networks and affordable smartphones has opened up new horizons for the younger generation in Bastar. Online learning platforms, government job portals, and digital skill development programmes are now accessible even in remote villages.

Youths are attending virtual classes, preparing for competitive exams, and exploring career opportunities that were once beyond their reach.

Furthermore, smartphones have enhanced awareness about government schemes, scholarships, and local job opportunities, instilling a sense of ambition and self-reliance among them.

In Dantewada, the state government's Niyad Nellanar project has proved a game-changer. Under the initiative, the district administration recently distributed more than 1,500 smartphones to villagers, along with free SIM cards and a year of free recharge. This effort ensured that even the remotest households could access digital services.