Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Tuesday handed over appointment letters to 20 former Maoists from Bhadradri Kothagudem and Mulugu districts, appointing them as “Giri Darshaks” (tourist guides). The programme was held in the presence of Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao and Malkajgiri Police Commissioner B. Sumathi. All selected candidates had recently surrendered to the state government.
The initiative aims to provide livelihood opportunities to tribal youth while promoting tourism in areas once affected by Maoist activity. The recruits completed a month-long training programme focused on tourism awareness, communication skills, and visitor assistance. They will serve at major tourist destinations including Parnashala, Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary, Laknavaram Lake, Karreguttalu, and Thousand Pillar Temple.
As part of their role, Giri Darshaks will guide tourists on local culture, history, and ecology, while ensuring compliance with forest rules and assisting with safety measures. The programme is being implemented in coordination with the tourism, forest, and endowment departments.
Officials said the initiative will be expanded to other districts, especially border regions. The recruits will later act as master trainers. Each Giri Darshak will receive a monthly honorarium of Rs 10,000 along with uniforms.
The government has also extended rehabilitation support, including financial aid and housing under the Indiramma scheme. Revanth Reddy appealed to Maoist leader Ganapati and others still in forests to surrender and join mainstream society, assuring full support for rehabilitation and peaceful livelihood opportunities.
