The Decline of Naxalism: Lessons in Internal Security

India has long faced the challenge of Left-Wing Extremism, commonly known as Naxalism. Rooted in Maoist ideology, it sought to establish a classless society through armed struggle. Emerging strongly in the 1960s from Naxalbari, it once spread across a wide "Red Corridor" in central India.

But in recent years, Naxalism has seen a remarkable decline.

Why?

🔹 Strong Security Measures: CRPF, state forces, and specialized units like Greyhounds adopted a zero-tolerance approach to violence.

🔹 Development Push: Roads, schools, health facilities, and digital connectivity reduced isolation and gave people faith in the State.

🔹 Leadership Vacuum: The loss of key figures weakened the movement, leading to splinter groups with no unified command.

🔹 Loss of Local Support: Earlier viewed as defenders of “Jal, Jungle, Zameen” (water, forest, land), Naxals today are seen as obstructing development and indulging in violence.

🔹 Government Programs: Initiatives like the Forest Rights Act, Aspirational Districts Programme, and Integrated Action Plans ensured benefits reached tribal and remote areas.

This two-pronged strategy of hard power + soft power has transformed the landscape. Once a widespread threat, Naxalism is now confined to limited districts, steadily losing relevance.

👉 The lesson? Security backed by inclusive development can transform even the toughest challenges.

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