India Targets Naxalism’s End by March 2026: MHA Declares After Major Operation

Dubela, Satrajit Das: In an effort to further suppress left-wing extremism, the Ministry of Home Affairs has set a deadline of March 2026 for the eradication of Naxalism in India. This statement followed a 21-day anti-Maoist operation conducted in the Karregutta forest in Telangana. Operation Karregutta, carried out by the Greyhounds unit and state police, received praise for the successful recovery of arms, explosives, and Maoist literature, all of which were considered valuable findings.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy lauded the collective effort, describing it as a significant success and an important step toward the removal of Naxalism. He highlighted that the operation demonstrated the Centre’s preparedness and willingness to eliminate any remaining forces of Maoism in India. Reddy also noted a positive trend, pointing to the decline in Maoist-driven activities over recent years.
The success of the operation was attributed to considerable cooperation between state and central forces, as well as improved intelligence sharing. Officials mentioned that the next phase would focus on development and welfare outreach in previously affected areas, with the aim of ensuring that extremist ideologies are no longer cultivated. The Centre reiterated its commitment to achieving a Naxal-free India, supported by both security measures and inclusive governance.