How India Plans to Eradicate Naxalism by 2026: Insights from Security Forces
Intensified Operations Against Naxalism
Bijapur: The Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force, GP Singh, announced on Wednesday that security forces are engaged in aggressive operations aimed at completely eradicating Naxalism by March 31, 2026.
Singh emphasized that the anti-Naxal initiative, which began in 2014, has gained momentum and focus since 2019, with central paramilitary forces collaborating closely with state police to eliminate the Naxal threat.
He pointed out the significant impact of these operations, noting that the number of districts severely affected by Naxal activities has decreased from 35 in 2014 to just six in 2025. Overall, the count of Naxal-affected districts has dropped from 126 to 18 during this timeframe.
In terms of violent incidents, Singh reported a decline from 1,080 in 2014 to 374 in 2024. The fatalities among security personnel due to Naxal violence have also significantly reduced, from 287 in 2014 to 19 in 2024. Furthermore, a total of 2,089 Naxals have been neutralized during this period.
In 2024 alone, 928 Naxals surrendered to the authorities, with an additional 718 Maoists giving themselves up this year.
To further combat Naxalism, security forces are working to displace Naxals from their strongholds and establish a presence in these areas. So far, 320 new security camps and 68 night landing helipads have been set up.
Singh reiterated the commitment to eliminate Naxalism through relentless and ruthless operations by the target date of March 31, 2026.