Odisha Government Reports Drastic Reduction in Maoist Activity Ahead of National Deadline
With the Central government's March 31 deadline to eradicate Naxalism from India now just over a month away, the Odisha state government disclosed on Monday that only approximately 40 Maoists remain active in splinter groups across six districts. This revelation marks a significant milestone in the long-standing battle against Left-wing extremism (LWE) in the region.
Detailed Breakdown of Remaining Maoist Presence
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, responding to a written query by BJD legislator Dhruba Charan Sahoo in the state assembly, provided specific details on the current situation. He stated that the remaining cadres are operating in isolated pockets within the districts of Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Boudh, Balangir, and Bargarh. Majhi reaffirmed the state's unwavering commitment to achieving the national target of completely eliminating LWE, emphasizing a multi-pronged strategy combining security and development initiatives.
In his address, the Chief Minister clarified the classification of affected districts. Kandhamal is the only district currently covered under the Centre's security-related expenditure (SRE) scheme, which provides financial support for counter-insurgency operations. Meanwhile, eight districts—Malkangiri, Koraput, Nuapada, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Boudh, and Balangir—are categorized as 'legacy and thrust' zones.
Significant Progress in Declaring Districts Maoist-Free
According to Odisha police officials, 'legacy and thrust' districts are those where extremist activities have either collapsed entirely or are on the verge of being eradicated. Highlighting this progress, since January 19, the Odisha police have officially declared five districts—Nuapada, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, Koraput, and Boudh—as Maoist-free. This status was achieved following the surrender of the last active cadres in these areas, a testament to the effectiveness of recent operations and surrender policies.
Massive Security Deployment and Modernized Operations
To consolidate these gains and ensure the complete eradication of remaining threats, the state government has deployed an extensive security apparatus. The forces include:
- 71 companies of central armed police forces
- 44 special operation group (SOG) teams
- 839 district voluntary force (DVF) jawans
- 49 platoons of the India Reserve Battalion
- 29 platoons of the special security battalion
- 92 platoons of the Odisha Special Striking Force
Intelligence-driven combing operations and area domination activities have been intensified across the region, supported by state-of-the-art equipment. This includes the use of drones, UAV interceptors, advanced weapons systems, and upgraded communication technologies. Furthermore, counter-insurgency training programs have been expanded significantly to enhance the operational capabilities of police personnel, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle evolving threats.
Coordinated Strategy and Development Focus
Chief Minister Majhi noted that anti-Maoist operations are now being coordinated at the sub-divisional level, with strengthened intelligence networks and concerted efforts to disrupt Maoist supply chains. This granular approach aims to address local dynamics and prevent any resurgence of extremist activities.
Beyond security measures, the government is prioritizing the effective implementation of development schemes in the affected areas. Maoists are being consistently urged to abandon violence and take advantage of the revised surrender and rehabilitation policy, which offers pathways to reintegration into mainstream society. This dual strategy of security enforcement and socio-economic development is central to Odisha's plan to meet the national deadline and ensure long-term peace in the region.
