Amit, a resident of Balodabazar-Bhatapara district in Chhattisgarh, was uncertain about his future until last December. A 12th-grade student, he found himself at a crossroads, unsure of what path to take next. However, after enrolling in a transformative program and receiving personalized counseling, he now attends coaching for competitive exams – completely free of charge. Amit’s story mirrors that of Nilesh, another district resident, who once struggled with confusion about his future. After enrolling in the program, Nilesh secured a loan and is now proudly running his own successful business. Meanwhile, Meera, a local youth, is refining her skills and taking steps toward her dreams.
These stories are not isolated; they represent the lives of many young people in the district whose futures have been transformed by an initiative called “Hum Honge Kamyab,” spearheaded by 2011 batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh, Mr Deepak Soni. In just six months, over 160 children have benefitted from this program, and more than 500 have been enrolled. Through a dedicated program, he provides counseling and emotional support, ensuring that the youth not only receive guidance for their careers but also have the mental resilience to overcome challenges.
Mr Soni’s impact extends beyond this initiative. Wherever he has served, he has left a lasting impression with his dedication to improving the lives of ordinary people. His tireless efforts to promote employment opportunities for both farmers and the general public have earned him recognition, even from the government. One of his significant accomplishments was the launch of “DANNEX,” a clothing brand created in Dantewada under his leadership, a symbol of local entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
Indian Masterminds had the opportunity to interact with Mr. Deepak Soni, the District Collector of Balodabazar-Bhatapara, Chhattisgarh, to learn more about his inspiring journey and the impactful initiatives he has introduced to uplift the lives of common people.
HUMBLE BEGINNING
Born on January 1, 1985, Mr Soni hails from Durg district in Chhattisgarh. After completing his B.Com, he set his sights on the UPSC exams and began preparing earnestly. In 2010, his hard work paid off when he secured the 120th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination and became an IAS officer.
Soni’s career took off with his role as the CEO of the Zila Panchayat in Raipur district. He also served as the in-charge collector of Raipur after the resignation of Collector OP Chaudhary. His leadership skills were further demonstrated when he became the first collector of Surajpur district. During his initial tenure there, he initiated such impactful changes that the district was awarded a national recognition for his work. The people of the districts where he served still remember him for his contributions.
A LEADER IN MAKING
After Surajpur, Mr Soni was appointed the Collector of Dantewada, a district that had long struggled with Naxal influence. He gained nationwide attention when he launched the district’s own clothing brand, “DANNEX,” in a region heavily affected by Naxal violence. This initiative led to the establishment of a garment factory, providing hundreds of women with the means to achieve financial independence. His efforts also extended to giving employment to surrendered Naxalites, helping them reintegrate into society.
Read Also: Reviving Tradition and Fostering Trust: The Renaissance of Devgudis in Dantewada
Beyond economic empowerment, he focused on the holistic development of the district. He spearheaded projects like the renovation of Devgudis (traditional community temples), the rebuilding of schools that had been destroyed by Naxalites, and enhancing educational opportunities for the children of Dantewada. His initiatives also contributed to the improvement of healthcare, tourism, and agricultural practices in the region.
Under his leadership, Dantewada became a model district, setting a precedent for others to follow. His work, which garnered widespread recognition, not only transformed Dantewada but also earned headlines across the nation.
HAM HONGE KAMYAB
The ‘Hum Honge Kamyab’ initiative was launched in September 2024 with the goal of providing career guidance, skilling, and employment opportunities to the youth, especially those in secondary and higher secondary school, as well as unemployed individuals. The initiative follows a clear structure built around three main pillars: Counseling, Skilling, and Employing. Mr Soni said, “My vision is to empower the youth and create lasting opportunities.”
The program has already made a significant impact in a short period. More than 160 children have benefitted from the initiative, and over 500 have enrolled. Workshops, seminars, and counseling camps have been organized across schools, while a Career Information Centre (CIC) was set up at the district library to provide ongoing support. The initiative also involves the convergence of multiple schemes. Furthermore, his team has been actively mobilizing communities in various villages, helping them access livelihood opportunities.
A COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY
The initiative is designed to provide a roadmap for youth empowerment. It addresses various aspects of career development:
- Government Job Aspirants: The initiative partners with coaching centers to provide free training for students preparing for competitive exams, including the PSC, state exams, and railways. For those who need more extensive preparation, a Prerna Center has been established to offer 2-3 years of foundational coaching.
- Private Sector Jobs: Placement camps are regularly conducted to connect candidates with potential employers. Additionally, the district’s skill development program has been revamped with modern courses in fields like drone technology, robotics, and heavy motor vehicles.
- Sports and Alternative Careers: Recognizing that not every youth is inclined toward academics, the initiative also provides support for those pursuing careers in sports. The district fully sponsors the training of youth qualifying for national games, fostering excellence in sports as an alternative career path.
- Self-Employment: An incubation center is in the works to support young entrepreneurs, providing mentorship and seed capital to those with innovative business ideas.
TACKLING MENTAL HEALTH
In addition to career guidance, Mr Soni has introduced the ‘Nai Disha Abhiyan,’ an initiative focused on addressing addiction and mental health challenges among youth. In today’s world, the pressures of social media and financial success can lead to anxiety and depression. Nai Disha Abhiyan tackles these issues, ensuring that youth stay motivated and grounded while Hum Honge Kamyab helps them take their first steps toward a successful future.
A LASTING LEGACY
The Hum Honge Kamyab initiative is a powerful reminder that with the right guidance, opportunities, and support, young individuals can overcome obstacles and build a brighter future. Its impact is transforming individuals and the community of Balodabazar-Bhatapara. As it grows, the program will equip youth with the tools to succeed in a changing world. Mr Soni stated, “Hum Honge Kamyab is not just a slogan – it’s a movement, a promise, and a vision for a prosperous future.”
