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By:

Abhijit Mulye

21 August 2024 at 11:29:11 am

Red flag to green steel

Ex-Maoists forge new destiny in Gadchiroli Gadchiroli: The rugged, forested terrain of Gadchiroli district, long synonymous with the violence and deep-rooted anti-establishment tenets of the ‘Red Ideology’, is now witnessing a remarkable social and industrial transformation. At the Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd. (LMEL) plant in Konsari, once-feared Maoist operatives are shedding their past lives and embracing a new, respectable existence as skilled workers in a cutting-edge Direct Reduced Iron...

Red flag to green steel

Ex-Maoists forge new destiny in Gadchiroli Gadchiroli: The rugged, forested terrain of Gadchiroli district, long synonymous with the violence and deep-rooted anti-establishment tenets of the ‘Red Ideology’, is now witnessing a remarkable social and industrial transformation. At the Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd. (LMEL) plant in Konsari, once-feared Maoist operatives are shedding their past lives and embracing a new, respectable existence as skilled workers in a cutting-edge Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) and pellet plant. This ‘green steel’ project, part of LMEL’s push for an integrated steel complex in the region, is functioning not just as an industrial unit but as a crucial pillar in the Maharashtra government’s surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy. So far, LMEL, in coordination with the state government and the Gadchiroli Police, has provided employment and training to 68 surrendered Maoists and 14 members of families affected by Naxal violence, a total of 82 individuals, offering them a definitive pathway back to the mainstream. The Shift The transformation begins at the company’s dedicated Lloyds Skill Development and Training Centre at Konsari. Recognizing that many former cadres had limited formal education, the company implements a structured, skill-based rehabilitation model. They are trained in essential technical and operational skills required for plant administration, civil construction, and mechanical operations. For individuals like Govinda Atala, a former deputy commander, the change is palpable. “After surrendering, I got the right to live a new life,” Atala said. “I am very happy to get this job. I am now living my life on my own; there is no pressure on me now.” Suresh Hichame, who spent over a decade in the movement before surrendering in 2009 too echoed the sentiments. He realized the path of violence offered neither him nor his family any benefit. Moreover, his self-respecct was hurt. He knew several languages and carried out several crucial tasks for the banned organization remaining constantly under the shadow of death. Today, he works in the plant, receiving a steady monthly salary that enables him to care for his family—a basic dignity the ‘Red Ideology’ could never provide. The monthly salaries of the rehabilitated workers, typically ranging from Rs 13,000 to Rs 20,000, are revolutionary in a region long characterized by poverty and lack of opportunities. Trust, Stability The employment of former Maoists is a brave and calculated risk for LMEL, an industry that historically faced stiff opposition and even violence from the left wing extremist groups. LMEL’s management, however, sees it as an investment in inclusive growth and long-term stability for the district. The LMEL has emphasized the company’s commitment to training and facilitating career growth for the local populace, including the surrendered cadres. This commitment to local workforce upskilling is proving to be a highly effective counter-insurgency strategy, chipping away at the foundation of the Maoist movement: the exploitation of local grievances and lack of economic options. The reintegration effort extends beyond the factory floor. By providing stable incomes and a sense of purpose, LMEL helps the former rebels navigate the social transition. They are now homeowners, taxpayers, and active members of the community, replacing the identity of an outlaw with that of a respected employee. This social acceptance, coupled with economic independence, is the true measure of rehabilitation. The successful employment of cadres, some of whom were once high-ranking commanders, also sends a powerful message to those still active in the jungle: the path to a peaceful and prosperous life is open and tangible. It transforms the promise of government rehabilitation into a concrete reality. The plant, with its production of iron ore and steel, is physically transforming the region into an emerging industrial hub, and in doing so, it is symbolically forging the nation’s progress out of the ashes of extremism. The coordinated effort between private industry, the state government, and the Gadchiroli police is establishing a new environment of trust, stability, and economic progress, marking Gadchiroli’s transition from a Maoist hotbed to a model of inclusive and sustainable development.

The Struggle Behind Success

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Most people believe that making money is simple. All it takes is talent, hard work, and a little time—right?


But that illusion usually vanishes the moment they take their first real step into the grind. The truth is, there’s nothing effortless about success. What we see from the outside is only the tip of the iceberg.


It reminds me of the duck gliding across a pond—elegant, calm, and graceful. But beneath the surface, that same duck is paddling furiously, its legs working overtime just to stay afloat. That’s what building a career or a business often looks like. What others admire as “graceful success” is usually hiding years of unseen struggle, sleepless nights, and countless sacrifices.


And this is exactly where the misunderstanding begins.


We’ve grown so accustomed to celebrating only the results—the spotlight moments, the awards, the big wins—that we’ve forgotten how to honour the journey itself. We scroll past posts about persistence, we skip the “before they made it” stories, and we often overlook people who are currently fighting to make a name for themselves.


But here’s the truth: everyone who has ever “made it” started exactly where you are. Confused. Exhausted. Invisible. Questioning if it’s even worth it. The only difference? They kept going—often with no applause.


This is where personal branding becomes more than just a marketing term. It’s not about packaging yourself to look polished—it’s about giving your struggle a voice. Personal branding is what helps you show up even before you’ve “arrived.” It allows the world to witness your journey while you’re still figuring it out.


You don’t need to be rich or famous to build a brand—you just need to be real.


If you’re hustling every day, trying to get noticed, trying to make your first real breakthrough—then don’t wait for the world to “discover” you. Start telling your own story. Document your small wins. Share what you’re learning. Be seen as you are, not just as you wish to be.


Because people don’t always connect with the perfect—they connect with the honest. You may not realise it yet, but your brand is already taking shape with every post you write, every conversation you lead, and every impression you leave behind.


Most people wait for success to speak on their behalf. But the most impactful people? They speak during the climb—not just from the top.


In a world filled with noise, real stories still matter. Not because they’re flawless, but because they’re familiar. So, if you’re out there, struggling quietly, hoping someone will notice the effort you’re putting in—I see you. And maybe the world needs to as well.


If you’re struggling to get noticed, build trust, or attract better opportunities, I help professionals create unforgettable personal brands—without sounding fake. I take on only 2 new personal branding clients per month. If you’re serious about telling your story the right way, reach out soon—I’d love to hear it. Message me the word ‘BRAND’ on Instagram and/or LinkedIn and I’ll send you my favourite method. Let’s make your name unforgettable.


LinkedIn: DivyaaAdvaani

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(The author is a personal branding expert. She has clients from

14+ countries. Views personal.)

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