Chhattisgarh is a state located in central India, known for its rich natural resources and diverse cultural heritage. However, the state also faces significant socio-economic challenges, particularly in the areas of agriculture and education. In this article, the interview is conducted with Sachin Gupta, Youth Activist to understand the conditions faced by farmers in Chhattisgarh, as well as the challenges faced by the state in addressing these issues. We will talk about the state of education in Chhattisgarh, and the impact of these challenges on the people who call this state home.
“According to a report by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), agriculture is the main source of livelihood for about 70% of the population in Chhattisgarh. However, farmers in the state face a number of challenges, including low crop yields, lack of access to credit and markets, and a lack of government support. The state is also facing a severe problem of air pollution in the industrial areas, which is affecting the livelihood of farmers.” This is particularly true in the Raigarh district, Sachin says. The air pollution caused by the industries in the district is affecting the quality of the vegetables grown by the farmers, which results in a lower price for their produce.
The state of education in Chhattisgarh is also a cause for concern. According to data from the District Information System for Education (DISE), the state has a literacy rate of 71.04%, which is lower than the national average of 74.04%. Additionally, the dropout rate among students in Chhattisgarh is high, with many children leaving school before completing their primary education. This is particularly true in rural areas like the village of Lakha, where Sachin grew up. The number of students attending school decreases significantly after the 5th standard, and by graduation the number of students is even lower.
Sachin is a youth activist from the small village of Lakha in the Raigarh district of the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. He comes from a farming family, and his father and grandfather have been farming for over 50 years. Sachin completed his primary education at the Saraswati Shishu Mandir Gerwani, and his secondary education at the Shalini School in Raigarh. He then went on to study MSC at Guru Ghasidas University, where he also served as the president of the student council. After completing his MSC, Sachin completed a Master’s in Social Work. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sachin returned to his village and observed the high levels of pollution in the area. He noticed that the vegetables grown by his family and other farmers in the area were covered in dust, which resulted in a lower price for their produce. Sachin also observed that there was a lack of corporate social responsibility in the area, and that the funds allocated for youth empowerment, women empowerment, and support for the elderly and disabled were not being utilized.
Sachin is a true inspiration to the youth in his community. His dedication to improving the living conditions in his village and the surrounding area is truly admirable. He is working to address the challenges faced by farmers in the area, including low crop yields, lack of access to credit and markets, and a lack of government support. His work to empower women and youth in the area, and to improve the support provided to families in the event of the death of the family head, is commendable. He is using his education and knowledge to bring about positive change in his community. Sachin’s efforts to raise awareness about the lack of corporate social responsibility in the area and the impact of air pollution on the livelihood of farmers, are truly inspiring. The community needs more people like Sachin who are willing to take action and make a difference.
