From Grazing Goats to Securing School Job: Chhattisgarh Woman's Inspiring Life Journey

Rajkumari, a woman from the Pahari Korwa tribe in Chhattisgarh’s Pendridih village, experienced a dramatic shift in her life, transitioning from the rural forest to the bustling city of Korba. Her story, marked by hard work and determination, reflects a significant change in her and her family’s future.

A few months ago, Rajkumari’s life was far from that of a princess, or even a typical person’s. Her daily existence involved living in the forest, collecting tendu leaves, grazing goats, working in the garden and the fields, and lighting stoves morning and evening. Despite living about 90 km away from the city, Rajkumari harboured a desire to pursue education and employment, dreams that seemed distant while living in the forest.

Though she could not fully realise her educational aspirations, she understood that education was the key to advancing herself and her community. After her family arranged her marriage at a certain age, she learned about job opportunities provided by the district administration under Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai’s initiative to employ educated individuals from her tribe. Seizing this chance, she applied for a position and left her previous life behind with a firm resolve to start anew in the city.

Rajkumari has since secured a job as a peon at NCDC Higher Secondary School, an opportunity provided by the district administration through DMF honorarium. This new role has transformed her daily routine. She now commutes to work in the city, a stark contrast to her previous treks through rough forest paths.

The transition from rural life to an urban setting has been a significant adjustment for Rajkumari, who had never anticipated such a change. However, she views this shift positively, recognising the value of education and employment in improving her family’s circumstances.

Gradually adapting to her new role at the school, Rajkumari is gaining insights into the importance of education for personal and communal advancement. She is determined to use her salary to provide a better future for her children, ensuring they receive a quality education and can escape the cycle of poverty that marked her own upbringing.