Chhattisgarh Government Unveils New Incentives To Curb Naxalism

As Chhattisgarh continues its robust efforts to combat Naxalism, the state government has rolled out new measures that combine infrastructure development with rehabilitation policies to encourage Naxalites to surrender. Announced on March 20, 2025, these initiatives come swiftly after a deadly encounter that resulted in the deaths of thirty Naxals in the Bastar region, signaling the government’s intensified commitment to eradicating the Naxal threat.

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma outlined the specifics of the new policy during a press conference, highlighting a program termed "Elvad Panchayat Abhiyan." This program is designed to incentivize village panchayats that declare themselves Naxal-free. Villages that accept surrenders and officially mark their territory as free from Maoist influence will qualify for significant benefits, including mobile network connectivity, electricity, and a hefty ₹1 crore allocated for local development works.

"Village panchayats that facilitate the surrender of Naxalites will be sanctioned construction works of ₹1 crore, mobile phone network, and electricity," Sharma stated, emphasizing the dual approach of security measures and socio-economic development. The new Chhattisgarh Naxal Surrender and Victim Relief and Rehabilitation Policy-2025 aims to support those who abandon the Naxal movement by offering free accommodation, food for three years, and monthly allowances of ₹10,000—assisting their transition back into mainstream society.

Furthermore, this policy extends to victims of Naxal violence, with comprehensive assistance programs that include financial aid, land grants, and other forms of support for displaced persons. Sharma noted that this initiative seeks not only to mitigate the operational capabilities of Naxals but also to address the humanitarian crises caused by their actions.

In recognition of the sacrifices made by security personnel in these ongoing conflicts, the state government has allocated ₹10 crore through the Panchayat Department for the "Veer Balidani scheme,” which will fund the installation of statues in honor of security personnel killed in action. An initial phase will see 500-600 statues erected, fulfilling a long-held demand by the families of fallen heroes.

The recent encounters in Bijapur and Kanker, where 26 Naxalites died, demonstrate the government's proactive measures. During these operations, a police jawan lost his life, underscoring the risks faced by security forces. Sharma commended law enforcement agencies for their tactical response which, according to him, curtailed a significant gathering of Naxals who were organizing for a Tactical Counter Offensive Campaign.

On a broader scale, the government is focused on improving connectivity in Naxal-affected areas, as exemplified by the new accessibility of Pamed. This area, which had been isolated for approximately 25 years, is now connected to Bijapur via Tarrem and Kondapalli, reducing the journey from 250 kilometers to just 90 kilometers. The introduction of bus services on this route marks a significant step toward regularizing travel and trade in previously volatile regions, where markets are reopening after years of closure due to Maoist activity.

The administration reported that a total of 577 new mobile towers have been installed in the region, improving communication networks vital for both security and civilian purposes. By enhancing connectivity and infrastructure, the government aims to foster a sense of normalcy and economic opportunity in areas that have suffered under the weight of Naxal violence.

In terms of police efforts, 113 Naxalites were reportedly killed in encounters across Chhattisgarh since the beginning of 2025, with the vast majority—97—falling in the Bastar division, known for its high levels of Naxal insurgency. Also noteworthy, this year has seen 164 surrenders and 104 arrests related to Naxal activities, reflecting a possible shift among some Naxals as they reconsider their alignment with the militant group.

The safety and security of citizens, alongside efforts to enable access to basic necessities like education, healthcare, and infrastructural development, play crucial roles in the state government's strategy to eradicate Naxalism. These coordinated efforts suggest a multifaceted approach that could potentially reshape the landscape of these regions and enable a lasting peace.

In conclusion, as the state government moves forward with its initiatives to promote Naxal surrenders and rehabilitate affected populations, the results of these efforts remain to be seen. The government's commitment to not only restoring peace but also addressing underlying issues of poverty and disenfranchisement will be critical in the pursuit of sustainable peace in Chhattisgarh.