India declared itself effectively Naxal-free in 2026 through an integrated strategy combining security operations, technology, development, and rehabilitation of surrendered cadres.
News: On 31 March 2026, India declared itself effectively free from Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) after a sustained security and development strategy.
About Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)
- Refers to the Maoist/Naxalite insurgency, led mainly by the CPI (Maoist).
- Seeks to challenge the constitutional state through armed violence and create a governance vacuum.
Key Highlights
- Peak Spread (2014): 126 affected districts across 10 states.
- Worst Affected: Chhattisgarh (Bastar), Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar.
- Partially Affected: Maharashtra, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana.
- Slightly Affected: Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
Government Strategy
- National Policy & Action Plan (2015): Integrated security and development approach.
- Security Measures: CAPF deployment, fortified police stations, CoBRA, Greyhounds, STF, DRG, improved intelligence.
- Technology: Drones, UAVs, satellite imagery, AI-based surveillance, mobile and social media analytics.
- Major Operations: Black Forest, Double Bull, Octopus, Thunderstorm, Bhimbarg, Chakrabandha.
- Financial Action: NIA-led crackdown on Maoist funding networks.
- Rehabilitation: Red Carpet for Surrender with skill training, PMAY housing, self-employment support, and free education for children up to Class XII.
Development Focus: Roads, digital connectivity, education, healthcare, financial inclusion, and tribal welfare in affected regions