Chhattisgarh's 'Lon Varratu' Campaign: Over 1,000 Maoists Choose Peace

In a significant achievement for Chhattisgarh's counter-insurgency efforts, over 1,000 Maoists have surrendered under the 'Lon Varratu' campaign. This initiative, launched in June 2020, aims to reintegrate former insurgents into society. With a combination of financial aid, skill development, and community outreach, the campaign has resonated with many disillusioned Maoists. The recent surrender of high-ranking operatives highlights the program's success and the ongoing commitment to peace and development in the region. Discover how this initiative is transforming lives and fostering a path away from violence.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 9, 2025, 17:51 IST

Significant Milestone in Dantewada

Dantewada: In a remarkable development for Chhattisgarh's efforts in counter-insurgency and rehabilitation, local police have reported that over 1,000 Maoists have surrendered as part of the state's prominent 'Lon Varratu' (Come Back Home) initiative, according to officials.

Initiated in June 2020, this program has achieved a significant milestone, with 1,005 former insurgents choosing to lay down their arms and reintegrate into society, officials noted.

Among those who have surrendered, 813 are men and 192 are women.

Notably, 249 of the surrendered Maoists were previously wanted, with cash rewards amounting to nearly Rs 5 crore.

During a joint press briefing, Bastar range Inspector General of Police Sundarraj P, Deputy Inspector General of Police Kamal Lochan Kashyap, CRPF Dantewada Range Deputy Inspector General of Police Rakesh Choudhary, and Superintendent of Police Gaurav Rai announced that on July 9, an additional 12 Maoists, including nine with bounties, surrendered to senior police and CRPF officials in Dantewada.

This group included high-ranking members such as a divisional committee member from West Bastar, a medical team associate, and a section commander from the Maad division.

Additionally, a couple from the Maoist ranks was among those who surrendered.

The campaign aims to motivate disillusioned Maoists to abandon violence and reintegrate into civil society, attracting participants from Dantewada and surrounding districts like Sukma, Bijapur, and Narayanpur.

Authorities credit the campaign's success to a blend of ongoing security operations, community engagement, and a robust rehabilitation policy from the state.

Surrendered Maoists receive immediate financial assistance of Rs 50,000, along with opportunities for skill development, agricultural land, housing, and healthcare.

Police officials indicate that the initiative resonates emotionally with many former cadres, who have become disenchanted with Maoist ideology, internal exploitation, and the challenges of life in the jungle.

The program has also gained momentum due to strategic pressure from security forces and growing awareness among tribal communities regarding the advantages of peace and development.

The Dantewada police, in collaboration with CRPF battalions and intelligence units, have been instrumental in facilitating these surrenders.

Officials reiterated that the campaign will persist, providing a dignified pathway back to society for those willing to renounce violence.

The 'Lon Varratu' initiative exemplifies the effectiveness of dialogue, trust-building, and inclusive governance in tackling long-standing insurgencies.