New Delhi — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday lauded the police, CRPF, BSF, and local administrations for their “tireless” and “commendable” efforts in tackling Maoism, asserting that the extremist movement will be completely eliminated by March 2026. He also highlighted how areas once plagued by violence are now witnessing rapid development.
Speaking at the Police Commemoration Day event at the National Police Memorial, Singh paid tribute to the ten brave policemen who were martyred in an ambush by Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh, on October 21, 1959 — a day now observed annually to honour police sacrifices.
Addressing the gathering, Singh said, “For years, Naxalism posed a major threat to our internal security. States like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra were deeply affected. Villages were deserted, schools were shut, and fear ruled the people’s lives. But we resolved that we would not let this menace continue.”
He praised the collective and coordinated efforts of the police, CRPF, BSF, and local administration, calling their contribution “remarkable.”
Expressing optimism, Singh said, “Our years of collective effort are now showing results. The nation can now say with confidence that by next year, there will be no trace of this problem left. Many top Naxal leaders have been neutralised this year, and the number of affected districts has drastically fallen. By March 2026, even the remaining few will be Maoism-free.”
The Defence Minister further pointed out that the regions once under Naxal control are now thriving with infrastructure and education. “Where people once trembled under the terror of Naxalites, there are now roads, hospitals, schools, and colleges. These former ‘Red Corridors’ are turning into growth corridors,” he said.
He noted that the success of the campaign can be seen in the way many former Maoists are surrendering and joining the mainstream. “Those who once raised arms against the state are now contributing to development. This transformation is a tribute to the relentless dedication of our security forces,” Singh stated.
The minister also acknowledged that for many years, the sacrifices of police personnel went unrecognised, but said that the Modi government has ensured their valor is honoured. “Under the Prime Minister’s leadership, the National Police Memorial was inaugurated in 2018 to eternally remember their sacrifices,” he said.
Highlighting the government’s focus on police modernisation, Singh added, “Our forces are now equipped with advanced weapons, surveillance systems, drones, forensic labs, and digital policing tools. The Centre is also providing ample resources to states for upgrading police infrastructure.”
Concluding his address, Singh emphasised the need for efficient use of limited national resources. “India faces many challenges, but we can overcome them only with effective coordination among security agencies. A strong police force is the foundation of a strong nation, and that must remain our mission,” he said.
—With inputs from IANS