Where there is progress, rebels fail to make headway.

One such example is the Naxalite-hit Sishani block in Motihari, where residents have given cold shoulder to the bandh called by Maoists.

Sishani is believed to be one among those villages preferred by the Maoists to spread their tentacles. Observers believe that the rebellion of the Maoists in Bihar started 14 years ago in East Champaran and in the bordering Sheohar and Sitamarhi districts.

Welfare projects, however, have made a huge impact in this village.

The action-based research pilot project — jointly promoted by the Supreme Court, Planning Commission and the district administration for integrated development of the tolas (hamlets) dwelt by members of the Musahar community (the most backward among the Mahadalits) — has come as a relief for those who have been indecisive about whether to take sides of the government or join the Maoist bandwagon.

The adviser commissioner of the Supreme Court, Sazzad Hassan, visited Motihari to convene a meeting with the district magistrate on October 9 and 10.

The meeting was conducted ahead of the research pilot project, a development camp, which started on October 19 and concluded on Thursday.

On the objective of the camp, East Champaran district magistrate Shridhar C. said: “We aim to make the community aware of the various programmes of the government. And also ensure the Musahars, who are extremely backward among the Mahadalits, a chance to lead a good life.”

During the three-day camp, 716 Musahar families were allotted plots to build houses.