Quick Overview
India is making decisive progress in eliminating Left Wing Extremism (LWE), once its gravest internal security threat. With significant decline in violence, shrinking Maoist influence, and enhanced state presence, the government aims to achieve a “Naxal-Free Bharat” by March 2026 through a multi-pronged strategy of security, development, and rights-based governance.
The Maoist insurgency, which spanned across India’s “Red Corridor” for decades, is witnessing a steep decline. From over 120 affected districts in 2013, the number has dropped to just 18 by 2025, with only six classified as “most affected.” This reduction is attributed to strong security coordination, targeted operations, and sustained developmental outreach.
Understanding Maoism:
Rooted in Mao Tse Tung’s ideology of armed struggle, Maoism seeks to capture state power through violence and mass mobilization. In India, the movement took root after the 1967 Naxalbari uprising and evolved into a prolonged insurgency led by the CPI (Maoist), now banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
Government Strategy:
The National Policy and Action Plan (2015) and the operational strategy SAMADHAN form the core framework for addressing LWE through:
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Security Measures: Intelligence-led operations, fortified police stations, and financial tracking of Maoist funding.
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Development Initiatives: Improved road and telecom connectivity, financial inclusion, skill training, and education in tribal belts.
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Empowerment & Rehabilitation: Civic Action Programmes, surrender and reintegration schemes, and counter-propaganda campaigns to foster trust between the state and local communities.
Challenges Persist:
Despite success, challenges like difficult terrain, weak governance, socio-economic inequities, and Maoist propaganda persist. These require deeper state penetration and continued focus on justice and development.
Way Forward:
India must REINFORCE its approach — revitalizing local governance, expanding livelihood opportunities, ensuring infrastructure and social justice, and promoting community policing. Integrating development with rights-based empowerment will secure long-term peace in former conflict zones.
Conclusion:
India’s fight against Naxalism demonstrates the effectiveness of combining hard security with human-centric governance. With continuous political will and public participation, the vision of a truly Naxal-free Bharat is within reach.
CLAT/Exam Relevance Summary
GS Paper 3 Topics: Internal Security, Left Wing Extremism, Government Policies.
Relevance for UPSC/CLAT:
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Understanding internal security frameworks like SAMADHAN and NIA’s role.
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Insights into the developmental linkages of extremism.
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Case study of India’s success in counterinsurgency combining force and welfare.
PYQs Linked: -
UPSC Mains (2020, 2015): Strategies to counter Left Wing Extremism and reintegrate affected populations.