TNIE Impact | Jharkhand's Bidikai gets first school with IIM Ranchi support
In a significant development for the residents of Bidikai village in Khunti district, Jharkhand, a makeshift school has been inaugurated with the support of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ranchi. This initiative marks a turning point for the village, which has long been deprived of educational opportunities.
The Need for Education in Bidikai
Before the establishment of the school, 35 children in Bidikai were unable to pursue their education due to the absence of a local school and the challenges of traveling several kilometers to reach the nearest educational facility. The lack of educational infrastructure has been a significant barrier to the development of this community.
Inception of the School
The initiative gained momentum following a report published by The New Indian Express on December 24, 2025, titled ‘No roads, no schools: Modern facilities merely a dream in Jharkhand’s Budikai village.’ This report highlighted the dire educational situation in the village, prompting IIM Ranchi to take action.
Field Visit and Community Engagement
A team from IIM Ranchi, led by Assistant Professor Gaurav Marathe, visited Bidikai on December 31, 2025. During this visit, the team assessed the needs of the community and decided to provide basic primary education to the children. The initiative was well-received by the villagers, who expressed their eagerness to support the project.
Construction of the School
With the funds raised by IIM Ranchi students through a program called ‘Joy of Giving,’ the villagers constructed an asbestos-roofed shed at a cost of approximately Rs 15,000. The local community contributed significantly by sourcing timber from the forest and providing manual labor for the construction. Bogan Hans, the most educated individual in the village, has been appointed as the teacher and will conduct classes for three hours daily, receiving a monthly salary of Rs 5,000 from IIM Ranchi.
Celebrating the Inauguration
The school was formally inaugurated on a Thursday, with a ‘festival of education’ celebrated in the village. The local ‘pahan’ (tribal priest) performed a puja, blessing the new educational endeavor in the presence of the entire village. This event symbolized a collective hope for a brighter future through education.
Ongoing Support and Monitoring
Professor Gaurav Marathe stated that IIM Ranchi plans to continue its engagement with the village by regularly visiting and monitoring the educational activities. This ongoing support aims to ensure the sustainability of the initiative and foster a culture of learning within the community.
Community Response and Aspirations
The villagers have responded positively to the establishment of the school. They are hopeful that this initiative will not only transform the educational landscape of Bidikai but also improve the overall image and destiny of their village. Sagar Munda, a villager, expressed that the flame of education ignited in Bidikai is set to inspire the entire region in the future.
Challenges Faced by Bidikai
Despite the progress made, Bidikai faces numerous challenges. The village, which has a population of just 35 families, lacks basic amenities such as roads, electricity, and safe drinking water. The absence of educational facilities has been the most pressing issue, as no resident has passed Class 10 exams to date. Development efforts have been hindered by the village’s past association with Maoist activities, which has made it difficult for modern facilities to reach the area even after 78 years of independence.
Access to the Village
Access to Bidikai is challenging, as the only route is a rough path carved along the mountains, built entirely by the residents themselves. This isolation has compounded the difficulties faced by the villagers in accessing education and other essential services.
Conclusion
The establishment of a school in Bidikai village represents a significant step towards addressing the educational needs of its children. With the support of IIM Ranchi and the dedication of the local community, there is hope for a brighter future for the children of Bidikai. The initiative serves as a model for similar efforts in other underserved regions, highlighting the importance of community involvement and institutional support in fostering education.
Note: This article reflects the current situation in Bidikai as of April 2026, and ongoing developments may further impact the community and its educational initiatives.
