Six districts most-affected by left-wing extremism: Shah, Pg 12

Key Highlights

Reduction in LWE-Affected Districts

• Union Home Minister announced that only 6 districts are now 'most affected' by LWE (down from 12).

• Government aims to eliminate Naxalism by March 2026 through a dual approach: security + development.

Most-Affected Districts (2024)

• Chhattisgarh: Bijapur, Kanker, Narayanpur, Sukma, Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki

• Jharkhand: West Singhbhum, Latehar

• Maharashtra: Gadchiroli

• Others: One district each in West Bengal, Odisha, Telangana

Districts of Concern

• Areas needing special attention include districts from Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana.

• These receive ?30 crore (most affected) and ?10 crore (concern districts) under a Special Central Assistance Scheme.

Reasons for Improvement

• Rapid progress due to:

  • Establishment of security camps in core areas

  • Expansion of roads, electricity, welfare schemes

  • Enhanced local governance in conflict zones

Analysis & Way Forward

• Combining targeted development with security measures has helped reduce LWEs geographical spread.

• Sustained success depends on rehabilitation, trust-building, and long-term community engagement.

Mains Mock Question:

"Left-Wing Extremism is both a security and developmental challenge. Evaluate the impact of recent government interventions in addressing LWE-affected regions."