Government Sets Deadline to Eliminate Naxal Threat by March 2026

The Indian government has set a deadline to eradicate Naxalism by March 2026, with the CRPF establishing 229 Forward Operating Bases in six states since 2019. These bases are crucial for extending state control into Naxal-affected areas and providing security forces with the necessary infrastructure to operate effectively. This article explores the strategic measures taken, the distribution of these bases, and their objectives in combating left-wing extremism.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 23, 2025, 16:09 IST

Strategic Measures Against Naxalism

In a bid to eradicate Naxalism, the central government has established a target to eliminate this threat by March 2026. As part of this initiative, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), a key player in combating left-wing extremism, has set up a total of 229 Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) across six major Naxal-affected states since 2019. These FOBs are integral to the government's security strategy aimed at countering left-wing extremism (LWE) in affected regions.

Establishment of Forward Operating Bases

The FOBs have been established by central armed police forces, including the CRPF and its specialized units, in remote forested areas previously considered strongholds of Naxalite groups. Out of the 229 FOBs, 59 were set up this year alone, followed by 40 in 2024, 27 in 2023, 48 in 2022, 29 in 2021, 18 in 2020, and eight in 2019.

Distribution of FOBs Across States

These bases are located in Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Telangana. Among the 59 FOBs established this year, Chhattisgarh has the highest number with 32, followed by nine each in Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh, four each in Maharashtra and Odisha, and one in Telangana. In a recent written response in the Rajya Sabha during the concluded winter session of Parliament, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai revealed that a total of 377 security posts (FOBs) have been set up by all central armed police forces in Naxal-affected states since 2019.

Objectives and Facilities of FOBs

The primary aim of these FOBs is to extend the state's reach into interior areas, deprive Naxalite operatives of safe havens, and maintain continuous control over the region. Unlike temporary camps, security posts are semi-permanent or permanent structures equipped with housing, communication systems, medical facilities, and logistical support, allowing security forces to remain deployed for extended periods.