How Naxal deadline was met with a two-pronged approach, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared on March 30, 2026, that Naxalism has been largely eradicated from Bastar and the country.
• The government met its deadline of March 31, 2026, to significantly diminish Naxalite influence, a goal announced in August 2024.
• Success was achieved through enhanced security measures, including the CRPF, and infrastructural development in Maoist-affected regions like Abujhmarh.
• Over 12,000 kilometers of roads were constructed, improving connectivity in previously isolated villages.
• More than 5,000 mobile towers were installed, providing villagers with access to communication networks.
• Key operations, such as the 21-day operation in the Karregutta hills, led to the elimination of 31 Maoists.
• Surrender and elimination of top Maoist leaders significantly weakened the movement.

Detailed Insights:

• The government adopted a two-pronged strategy, combining security operations with developmental initiatives in Naxal-affected areas.
• Constructing roads in Abujhmarh, a Maoist stronghold, was a critical challenge initially undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation under CRPF protection.
• The establishment of over 100 forward operating bases by the CRPF in Abujhmarh boosted the confidence of villagers and facilitated intelligence gathering.
• Improved intelligence, combining human and technical sources, enabled security forces to gain an advantage over Maoists.
• The Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) played a crucial role in operations against Naxalites.
• Rehabilitation schemes are being implemented by affected states to encourage Naxalites to surrender and join the mainstream.
• The Home Minister noted that the surrender of the remaining top leaders, Mupalla Lakshmana Rao (Ganapathy) and Misir Besra (Sagar), would mark the complete end of Naxalism in India.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Naxalism: A far-left radical communist movement that originated in India, often involving armed insurgency.
• CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force): India's primary internal security force, responsible for maintaining law and order.
• Forward Operating Base: A secured forward position used to support military operations, providing a base for troops and supplies.