Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asserted that Naxalism is on the verge of eradication, stating that it will soon become a relic of the past. Speaking at a security review meeting in New Delhi, Singh highlighted the combined efforts of the Indian armed forces, paramilitary units, and development programs in Naxal-affected regions as key factors in weakening insurgent networks.
The Defence Minister’s statement underscores the government’s determination to end decades-long Naxal insurgency and restore peace in India’s affected regions. Singh said that coordinated operations, intelligence-led interventions, and socio-economic development have created conditions to gradually eliminate extremist influence.
Read More: Kangpokpi Town Imposes Complete Firecracker Ban Ahead of Diwali
Naxalism to become history: Singh’s confidence in security forces
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed confidence in the capability of Indian security forces to dismantle Naxal operations across the country. “Through strategic operations, sustained vigilance, and the active participation of local communities, Naxalism is being systematically weakened. We are confident that this menace will soon become history,” he said.
The Minister emphasized that success against Naxal groups requires a dual approach: robust law enforcement measures combined with development initiatives in affected districts. He noted that security operations have significantly reduced the operational areas of Naxals in states such as Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Maharashtra.
Singh also praised the role of local police, central armed police forces, and the Indian Army in ensuring the safety of civilians while targeting Naxal leadership. He reiterated that intelligence-driven missions are crucial in neutralizing armed insurgents and dismantling their support networks.
Development initiatives complement security efforts
Alongside military and police operations, the government has intensified developmental work in Naxal-affected areas to address root causes of the insurgency. Singh stressed that the government’s welfare programs for education, health, infrastructure, and employment are critical components of the strategy to end Naxal influence.
The Defence Minister pointed out that the expansion of roads, electricity, and communication networks has allowed security forces to operate more effectively while providing villagers with access to government services. “Economic inclusion and development create opportunities for communities, leaving less space for extremist ideologies to take root,” Singh said.
Authorities have reported that improved infrastructure has also facilitated faster response to emergencies, reduced isolation of vulnerable villages, and created avenues for local employment, further reducing the appeal of Naxal propaganda.
Intelligence-led operations crucial in anti-Naxal strategy
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the significance of intelligence in planning and executing anti-Naxal operations. “Timely and accurate intelligence enables our forces to strike decisively while minimizing collateral damage and protecting civilians. This has been a key factor in weakening Naxal networks,” he said.
He explained that the integration of local informants, aerial surveillance, and technology-driven monitoring has enhanced the effectiveness of security operations. Special units equipped with modern weapons and communication systems have been deployed to high-risk zones to target insurgent strongholds.
Singh also credited cooperation between neighboring states in sharing intelligence and coordinating joint operations as a major factor in reducing Naxal activity. He emphasized that inter-state collaboration is essential for eradicating insurgency that spans multiple regions.
Community engagement strengthens counter-insurgency
The Defence Minister noted that community engagement plays a vital role in ensuring that Naxalism becomes a thing of the past. Local communities in affected regions are encouraged to cooperate with security agencies while participating in development initiatives.
Villagers are being educated about the dangers of extremist ideology and the benefits of peace, security, and economic opportunity. Singh highlighted that such engagement not only strengthens the confidence of civilians but also undermines the recruitment efforts of Naxal groups.
“People are our strongest allies. When communities take ownership of their development and security, the influence of Naxalism diminishes rapidly,” he said.
National commitment to Naxal eradication
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed the central government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating Naxalism. He stated that the government’s long-term strategy focuses on combining security, intelligence, and development to create sustainable peace in affected regions.
Singh also emphasized that law enforcement agencies will continue to receive advanced training, modern equipment, and logistical support to carry out operations efficiently. The government plans to expand social welfare programs to include skill development, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support, creating alternatives to extremist involvement.
Officials confirmed that periodic reviews of Naxal-affected areas are being conducted at the national level to monitor progress, assess gaps, and implement corrective measures. This approach ensures that efforts to make Naxalism history remain coordinated and result-oriented.
Impact of recent operations
Recent reports indicate a significant decline in violent incidents in traditional Naxal strongholds. Security forces have successfully neutralized several insurgent leaders and disrupted key supply chains, further weakening the operational capacity of Naxal groups.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pointed out that these successes demonstrate that the strategy combining force with development is working effectively. He expressed optimism that with continued efforts, the remaining pockets of insurgency can be brought under control, paving the way for lasting peace.
Vision for a peaceful future
Singh concluded by emphasizing the government’s vision of a stable and secure India, free from internal insurgencies. “Our goal is to ensure that citizens in previously Naxal-affected regions can live without fear, access government services, and participate in development. Naxalism will soon be history, and our security forces are committed to achieving this,” he said.
He urged citizens to support government initiatives and actively participate in community development, reinforcing that collective effort is key to defeating extremism. Singh also called for responsible media reporting to highlight progress while discouraging sensationalism that could aid insurgents.
The Defence Minister’s message reflects a comprehensive approach toward counter-insurgency—one that combines operational efficiency, development initiatives, intelligence sharing, and community engagement to eliminate the threat of Naxalism permanently.
Read More: Mizoram Collects Biometric Data of 13,600 Refugees, Say Officials