The Government of India’s determined efforts to combat left-wing extremism (LWE) have yielded remarkable results, reflecting a consistent decline in violence and a shrinking geographical footprint of Maoist influence. The Ministry of Home Affairs recently detailed these achievements in a statement to the Lok Sabha, attributing the progress to the resolute implementation of the National Policy and Action Plan to Address LWE, launched in 2015.
Over the years, India has witnessed a dramatic reduction in LWE-related violence. The incidents of Maoist attacks, which peaked in 2010 with over 2,200 violent events, have declined by an astounding 73% by 2023. The resultant deaths of civilians and security forces have dropped even more sharply, falling by 86% from 1,005 in 2010 to just 138 in 2023. The ongoing year, 2024, has shown further improvement, with a 25% reduction in violence recorded up to mid-November compared to the same period in the previous year.
The geographical spread of LWE has also contracted significantly. From affecting 126 districts across 10 states in 2013, Maoist activities are now limited to just 38 districts across nine states as of April 2024. Key states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha continue to bear the brunt of the insurgency, with districts such as Bastar, Sukma, and Gadchiroli remaining hotspots. However, the overall reduction highlights the effectiveness of the government’s multi-faceted approach to addressing this challenge.
Central to this progress is the government’s comprehensive strategy, combining security measures with developmental initiatives to address the root causes of extremism. On the security front, the government has provided extensive support to LWE-affected states, deploying Central Armed Police Forces, funding the modernization of state police forces, and constructing fortified police stations in vulnerable areas.
Between 2019 and 2024, a total of ₹4,350.78 crore was allocated under schemes such as the Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS) and Security Related Expenditure (SRE) to bolster the capacity of state forces. Additionally, ₹560.22 crore was provided to central agencies for helicopters and critical infrastructure within security camps in LWE-prone regions.
Developmental initiatives have played a critical role in the government’s approach, focusing on improving connectivity, enhancing financial inclusion, and empowering local communities. Over 14,469 kilometers of roads have been constructed in LWE-affected areas, providing much-needed connectivity to remote regions.
Telecommunication infrastructure has also been improved, with 6,567 mobile towers commissioned, enabling better communication and access to services. To promote financial inclusion, 5,731 post offices, 1,007 bank branches, and 937 ATMs have been set up in the 30 most affected districts, integrating marginalized populations into the formal economy.
Efforts to uplift and empower the youth have been prioritized. Forty-six Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and 49 Skill Development Centers are now operational in these areas, equipping young people with vocational skills and better livelihood opportunities. Furthermore, 178 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) have been established to provide quality education to tribal children, ensuring they are not drawn into extremist ideologies.
The government’s community engagement initiatives have also been instrumental in winning the trust of local populations. Under the Civic Action Programme, Central Armed Police Forces such as the CRPF and BSF have conducted welfare activities to bridge the gap between security personnel and the local people, steering the youth away from Maoist influence. Tribal Youth Exchange Programs organized by the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan have further strengthened the integration of tribal communities into the mainstream.
While the gains have been substantial, challenges remain. Districts like Bastar in Chhattisgarh and Gadchiroli in Maharashtra continue to see sporadic Maoist activities, requiring sustained efforts to ensure lasting peace. The government has reiterated its commitment to addressing these challenges through a holistic approach that combines strong security measures with inclusive development.
