Question.
Explain the steps taken by the government to counter Naxalism in India.
( UPPSC, UP PCS Mains General Studies-III/GS-3 2020)
Answer.
Naxalism is also known as Left Wing Extremism ( LWE), which is an armed insurgency and ideological movement led by various communist groups operating in certain parts of the country. It is mainly spread in central India, mainly in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha, and also surrounding areas of these three states.
Here are some key measures taken by the government to counter Naxalism in India:
Security Operations; Government has deployed security forces like central paramilitary forces and state police, to conduct counter-insurgency operations in Naxal-affected areas. This aims to restore law and order and disrupt the Naxal network in the area.
Coordination and Intelligence sharing; There is a collaboration between the central and state government agencies regarding intelligence sharing about real-time information about Naxalite activities. It helps in planning and executing targeted operations against the Naxal insurgents.
Development Initiative; The government has initiated many development initiatives to remove the inequality, poverty, and unemployment in the Naxal-affected areas, which are considered as root causes of Naxalism. Government initiative includes infrastructure development, rural electrification, road connectivity, providing schools and health services, and provision to clean drinking water.
Integrated Action Plan( IAP) 2010: The program focuses on targeted development projects in Naxal-affected areas. Under this scheme, additional funds are allocated to districts affected by Naxalism for infrastructure development, employment generation, and social welfare schemes.
Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy: This policy encourages Naxalites to lay down their arms and join the mainstream. Surrendered individuals are provided with many benefits which include financial benefits, skill development training, and social integration support.
International Cooperation; International cooperation in countering Naxalism is needed as they also take funding from abroad through illegal trafficking. Intelligence sharing, training programs, and exchange of best practices with countries facing similar challenges have been undertaken to enhance the capabilities of security forces, community engagement, and Rehabilitation.
In conclusion, Naxamlism in India is one of the main problems. The government has taken a multi-pronged approach that comprises security operation, coordination and intelligence sharing, good governance, social-economic development, and international cooperation.
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