Q10. Left-wing extremism (LWE) is showing a downward trend but still affects many parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India’s approach to counter the challenges posed by LWE.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Left-wing extremism (LWE), also known as Naxalism, has posed a significant internal security challenge to India for decades, primarily affecting tribal and rural areas across several states. Though LWE violence has seen a marked decline in recent years, it still remains a threat in parts of the country, especially in states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Maharashtra. The Government of India has adopted a multi-pronged approach to tackle this issue, focusing on both security operations and socio-economic development.

Body

Government of India’s Approach to Counter LWE

1. Security Operations

  • Deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF): Special forces like the CRPF, CoBRA units, and BSF have been deployed to counter LWE activities and neutralize insurgent operations.
  • State Police Modernization: The government has invested in the modernization of state police forces through better equipment, training, and intelligence capabilities.
  • Intelligence Sharing: Enhanced coordination between central and state intelligence agencies to ensure real-time data sharing on LWE movements and activities.
  • Unified Command Structure: States like Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have established a unified command structure to streamline anti-Naxal operations involving both state and central forces.

2. Infrastructure Development

  • Road and Rail Connectivity: The government focuses on improving road and rail networks in remote LWE-affected areas to ensure better access for both security forces and civilians, which also helps stimulate economic growth.
  • Power and Telecom Projects: Electrification and expansion of mobile connectivity in LWE-affected areas help integrate them with the rest of the country, reducing their isolation.
  • Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS): The SIS supports the construction of fortified police stations and other necessary infrastructure in remote and vulnerable areas.

3. Civic and Developmental Engagement

  • Aspirational Districts Programme: Many LWE-affected districts are included in the Aspirational Districts Programme to improve socio-economic indicators like health, education, and income generation through targeted government interventions.
  • Skill Development and Employment Generation: Initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) aim to improve the employability of the youth in LWE-affected areas, providing alternatives to joining extremist groups.
  • Financial Inclusion: Efforts are made to improve access to banking services and promote financial inclusion, allowing people in LWE areas to benefit from government schemes like Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT).

4. Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy

  • Incentives for Surrender: The government encourages LWE cadres to surrender by offering financial assistance, vocational training, and job opportunities.
  • Rehabilitation and Reintegration: Focus on rehabilitating surrendered extremists into mainstream society by providing them with livelihood support, reducing the likelihood of recidivism.

5. Public Outreach and Awareness

  • Jan Samvad (Public Dialogue) Initiatives: The government has initiated several public outreach programs to engage with local communities, build trust, and educate them about government schemes.
  • Media Campaigns and Civil Society Involvement: Media campaigns aim to dispel the appeal of LWE ideologies, while civil society organizations work on the ground to promote peace and development.

6. Legal and Policy Framework

  • National Policy and Action Plan 2015: The government introduced this comprehensive strategy to address LWE through coordinated efforts across multiple ministries and state governments.
  • Fast-Track Development: Focus on accelerating the implementation of schemes related to tribal welfare, land reforms, and food security to address the root causes of LWE.

Conclusion

The Government of India’s approach to counter Left Wing Extremism is a combination of security measures and socio-economic development initiatives. While security forces are tackling the insurgency on the ground, efforts to develop infrastructure, provide employment, and rehabilitate surrendered extremists aim to address the root causes of discontent. With a comprehensive focus on both development and enforcement, LWE violence has significantly declined, but sustained efforts are needed to completely eradicate the threat from the affected regions.

‍

Instant Mains Evaluation with SuperKalam

✅ Now that you have gone through the model answer, try practicing and writing it in your own words and evaluate it instantly with SuperKalam here - Evaluate Mains Answer instantly

Read more blogs