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Goa, Oct 20 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking aboard INS Vikrant during Diwali celebrations with armed forces personnel, announced that India is witnessing the “final phase” of the decades-long Maoist insurgency.
His remarks were part of a wider tribute to the security forces, whom he credited with destroying the left-wing extremism infrastructure in the affected areas.
Addressing the troops from INS Vikrant in Goa, PM Modi said, “Today the country is moving towards the end of Maoism. Only three districts are left where Maoism is prevalent and they too will soon be liberated.”
“Earlier, 125 districts were severely affected. Now, more than 100 districts can heave a sigh of relief and celebrate Diwali peacefully. This has been made possible by the valor of our police forces.”
He stressed the government’s multi-pronged strategy – a combination of development, infrastructure expansion and targeted security operations – was instrumental in weakening Maoist influence, especially in tribal and forest areas.
PM Modi’s speech combined military pride with the vision of a Naxal-free nation, underscoring the dual vision of security and development.
He said, “Before 2014, around 124 districts were badly affected by Naxalite influence. By October 2025, only 11 districts are left, three of which are considered high risk. Over 100 districts can now heave a sigh of relief and celebrate Diwali peacefully – thanks to the courage of our police forces.”
“Red corridors are turning into green growth areas,” he said, citing the emergence of roads, schools and hospitals in areas once gripped by violence.
PM Modi praised the extraordinary resolve of the police against the unique challenge since independence.
Reflecting on the complexity of the internal conflict, PM Modi said, “Unlike soldiers trained for war, our police – often armed only with batons – work among civilians. After independence, the police faced an unprecedented challenge. Fighting an internal war without harming innocents is no easy task. Nevertheless, our police forces have done a tremendous job. The country is proud of them.”
He further said, “In the districts where Maoists had once rejected the Constitution, the slogan of ‘Swadeshi’ now resonates.”
PM Modi’s comments indicate a broader change in India’s internal security. Coordinated efforts between central and state forces along with infrastructure development and community participation have led to a steady decline in Maoist activity.
His speech also served to boost morale and reaffirmed the nation’s gratitude and commitment to the welfare of its security personnel.
–IANS
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