Raipur/Sukma. Once plagued by Naxalite fears and a drinking water crisis, Lakhapal, a remote village in Sukma district, has now become a new example of development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and the active initiative of the district administration, clean drinking water is now available to every household in the village.

In this water-scarce village, the dream of "water for every home" has now come true. Through the effective implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission and the state's Niyyad Nellanar Scheme, 117 households have been provided with tap connections. Four solar pump-based tanks were installed at a cost of approximately ₹7.2 million, ensuring a regular water supply throughout the village.

While villagers previously relied on streams, wells, and boreholes for water, they now have access to pure water at home. This is a significant relief, especially for women and children who previously had to fetch water from distant lands. The faces of the village women now reflect a sense of peace and contentment.

Collector Amit Kumar explained that this initiative is not limited to providing water, but has also brought positive changes to the health and lifestyle of the villagers. Waterborne diseases have decreased and sanitation levels in the village have improved.

The villagers of Lakhapal say that previously, the village was filled with fear and deprivation, but now development is the talk of the town. After receiving water, the villagers are also moving towards self-reliance by cultivating vegetables.

Today, Lakhapal is proving that with proper implementation of schemes, even remote and Naxal-affected areas can see the light of development. Now, this village has overcome fear and thirst and is on the path to development and self-reliance.