Gumla: A former Indian Navy serviceman, Arbind Kujur, has entered the electoral arena as an Independent candidate from the Sisai ST seat in Gumla.
After serving 15 years in aviation air electrical engineering, Kujur has returned to his native village with a mission to address youth unemployment, rural development, and tribal rights.
"During my 15-year tenure in the Indian Navy at various locations, including Vishakhapatnam and Mumbai, I served the nation. Upon returning home, I found rural areas unchanged since the days of undivided Bihar," Kujur told TOI.
Kujur highlights the paradox of local unemployment, stating, "While our youth struggle for jobs, outsiders easily secure government positions. Our people leave as unskilled laborers and return the same, while migrants from other states obtain permanent government employment here."
He criticizes the state's competitive examination system, pointing out that "irregular scheduling and paper leaks have discouraged many aspirants, with many crossing the age limit while waiting for opportunities."
A key issue in Kujur's campaign is the challenge tribal youth face in securing bank loans due to CNT-SPT provisions. "Our tribal lands, being non-transferable, are severely undervalued compared to other properties. This restricts our community's access to substantial loans for business ventures," he explains.
Advocating for long-term solutions, Kujur urges voters to look beyond immediate benefits. "I'm asking people to support me so I can forcefully raise these issues in the assembly," he says. His campaign focuses on fulfilling the original aspirations behind Jharkhand's formation and addressing the continuing exodus of local people as migrants. "After serving the nation, I now wish to serve my people and work for regional development. This motivated my entry into active politics," says the former naval personnel, who continues his campaign efforts to gather support from local voters.