Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the significant efforts of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in combating Maoist insurgency. He revealed that the CRPF has established over 400 forward operating bases (FOBs) in areas affected by Maoist violence. This strategic expansion has played a pivotal role in reducing violence in these regions by more than 70% over the last decade, marking a major achievement in the ongoing battle against Maoist extremism.
On Thursday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that Maoism, which is currently limited to just four districts in India, will be completely eradicated by March 31 next year. In his statement, Shah praised the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) as the “backbone” of this mission, acknowledging their crucial role in the government’s efforts to combat this insurgency.
Shah’s bold pledge highlights the government’s commitment to tackling Maoist violence and ensuring peace in the affected regions. By setting a clear timeline for its elimination, the government aims to bolster national security and pave the way for developmental initiatives in these areas.
The CRPF, with its extensive presence in these areas, has been pivotal in counterinsurgency operations, and Shah’s comments emphasize the force’s ongoing efforts and vital contributions to restoring order. The minister’s statement signifies a significant milestone in India’s fight against left-wing extremism and underscores the government’s resolve to bring lasting peace to the nation.
Home Minister Amit Shah Addresses CRPF’s 86th Raising Day in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh
In a significant address at the 86th Raising Day celebration of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke about the ongoing efforts to combat Maoist insurgency in India. He praised the CRPF for its pivotal role in reducing the influence of Maoists in the country, highlighting the progress made so far.
Shah remarked, “The Maoists, who once dreamed of spreading terror from Pashupatinath to Tirupati, are now confined to just four districts. This achievement is primarily attributed to the exceptional efforts of the CRPF.” He further emphasized that the government’s commitment to eradicating this menace would culminate by March 31, 2026, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Home Minister also commended the crucial contributions of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the CRPF, particularly its elite CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) battalion, in countering Maoism and ensuring the safety and security of the nation. The efforts of these forces, according to Shah, are instrumental in the continued fight against insurgency and terrorism in India.
Shah Highlights CRPF’s Success in Maoist-affected Areas with Forward Operating Bases (FOBs)
In the past five years, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has made significant strides in curbing violence in Maoist-affected regions, establishing over 400 Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) across the country. Union Home Minister Amit Shah shared that due to these strategic deployments, the violence in these areas has dropped by more than 70% over the last decade.
A Forward Operating Base (FOB) plays a crucial role in restoring peace and stability to areas previously dominated by Naxals. These camps not only establish the government’s presence in remote regions but also act as a symbol of control over territories that were once under insurgent influence. The establishment of an FOB enables the government to provide vital services to the local population, who have long been deprived of such benefits due to Naxal activities.
Typically, each FOB houses between 250 to 600 security personnel, depending on the sensitivity of the region. Once operational, these camps pave the way for essential government services to reach civilians. This includes the opening of schools, markets, and improved connectivity to other parts of the state. The presence of these camps helps bring normalcy to areas once ravaged by violence and insurgency, offering a ray of hope for long-term peace and development.
Through the relentless efforts of CRPF and the establishment of FOBs, these regions are witnessing a transformation, with government support reaching previously inaccessible areas, giving residents the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
The Indian government has set a clear target to eliminate Maoism from the country by March 31, 2026, setting the stage for a decisive shift in security operations. This ambitious goal has prompted all security forces, especially in Maoist-affected regions like Chhattisgarh, to intensify their operations and launch an aggressive campaign against the insurgents.
Over the past two years, the result has been a significant increase in both the number of Maoists neutralized in gunfights and the number of surrenders. The central paramilitary forces, notably the CRPF, have been at the forefront of this operation, strategically establishing forward operating bases (FOBs) deep in areas that were once under the control of Maoists.
In a notable development last year, over 30 such camps were set up in core areas that had long been dominated by Maoist forces. These camps are not just military outposts; they symbolize the reclaiming of territories that were once strongholds of insurgency. One such camp was established in Puvarti village, which has been home to some of the most wanted Maoist commanders, Madhvi Hidma and Barse Deva. These two individuals are among the top targets of the security forces, with both having earned a reputation for their leadership in the Maoist insurgency.
As the security forces continue to strengthen their presence in these regions, the aim is to restore peace and stability while dismantling the Maoist infrastructure that has plagued these areas for decades. This operation marks a significant step towards addressing the Maoist threat and brings the country closer to the goal of completely eliminating Maoism by 2026.
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