For this article:

4 Feb 2026·Source: The Indian Express
5 min
Polity & GovernanceSocial IssuesPolity & GovernanceNEWS

LWE Affected Districts Reduced to 8 Since 2018: Government

Government reports significant reduction in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected districts since 2018.

LWE Affected Districts Reduced to 8 Since 2018: Government

Photo by DJ Paine

The government has reported a significant reduction in the number of districts affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE). In 2018, 126 districts were affected, but this number has now decreased to 8. This reduction is attributed to various government initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of LWE, improving security measures, and promoting development in affected areas. The government continues to focus on eliminating LWE and ensuring peace and stability in these regions.

Key Facts

1.

2018: 126 LWE affected districts

2.

Today: 8 LWE affected districts

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism.

2.

GS Paper II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

3.

Connects to syllabus areas of internal security, social justice, and governance.

4.

Potential question types: Statement-based MCQs, analytical questions on the effectiveness of government policies.

Visual Insights

Reduction in LWE Affected Districts (2018-2026)

This map shows the reduction in the number of districts affected by Left Wing Extremism from 126 in 2018 to 8 in 2026.

Loading interactive map...

📍Chhattisgarh📍Jharkhand📍Odisha📍Bihar

LWE Situation: Key Statistics

Key statistics related to the LWE situation in India.

LWE Affected Districts (2018)
126

Baseline for measuring the impact of government efforts.

LWE Affected Districts (2026)
8-93.65%

Significant reduction due to government initiatives.

More Information

Background

The issue of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in India has deep historical roots, stemming from socio-economic inequalities and land disputes. The Naxalite movement, which originated in West Bengal in 1967, is considered the genesis of LWE. This movement advocated for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly tribal populations, and challenged the existing power structures. The initial spark was the armed rebellion in Naxalbari village, leading to the term 'Naxalism'. Over the decades, LWE spread to various parts of India, particularly in the states of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. The movement gained traction among tribal communities who felt alienated from mainstream society and deprived of their land and resources. Various factors contributed to the persistence of LWE, including inadequate implementation of land reforms, displacement of tribal populations due to development projects, and lack of access to education and healthcare. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, also known as the Forest Rights Act, aimed to address some of these issues by granting land rights to tribal communities, but its implementation has been uneven. Efforts to counter LWE have involved a multi-pronged approach, combining security measures with development initiatives. The government has deployed central armed police forces (CAPFs) to LWE-affected areas to maintain law and order and conduct anti-Naxal operations. Simultaneously, various development programs have been launched to improve infrastructure, provide employment opportunities, and enhance access to education and healthcare in these regions. The Special Infrastructure Scheme is one such initiative aimed at bridging the development gap. The Constitution of India also provides safeguards for tribal communities through Article 244 and the Fifth and Sixth Schedules, which aim to protect their rights and promote their welfare. Internationally, similar movements have been observed in other countries facing socio-economic disparities and marginalization of indigenous populations. These movements often share common ideologies and strategies, such as armed struggle and advocacy for land rights. However, the specific context and dynamics of each movement vary depending on the local conditions and historical factors. Comparative studies of these movements can provide valuable insights into the root causes of extremism and the effectiveness of different counter-insurgency strategies.

Latest Developments

The government's current strategy to combat LWE involves a combination of security operations and development initiatives. The security forces are focused on neutralizing Naxalite cadres and dismantling their organizational structures. Simultaneously, the government is implementing various development programs to address the socio-economic grievances of the local population. These programs include infrastructure development, skill development, and employment generation schemes like MGNREGA. The aim is to win the hearts and minds of the people and wean them away from the influence of Naxalites. There are ongoing debates about the effectiveness of the government's strategy. Some argue that a purely security-centric approach is counterproductive and can alienate the local population. They advocate for a greater emphasis on addressing the root causes of LWE, such as land disputes and social injustice. Others argue that a strong security presence is necessary to create an environment conducive to development. Institutions like NITI Aayog are involved in formulating and monitoring development programs in LWE-affected areas. The government aims to eliminate LWE completely and ensure peace and stability in the affected regions. This involves strengthening local governance, empowering tribal communities, and promoting inclusive development. The success of this strategy depends on effective coordination between various government agencies and the active participation of the local population. The government has set targets for achieving specific development goals in LWE-affected areas, such as improving literacy rates and reducing poverty levels. The upcoming milestones include the completion of infrastructure projects and the implementation of new social welfare schemes. Challenges remain in the fight against LWE, including the difficult terrain, the presence of IEDs, and the continued recruitment of new cadres by Naxalites. The way forward involves strengthening intelligence gathering, improving coordination between security forces and development agencies, and addressing the socio-economic grievances of the local population. The government is also exploring the use of technology, such as drones and satellite imagery, to enhance its surveillance capabilities and track the movement of Naxalites.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts about the reduction in LWE affected districts that are important for UPSC Prelims?

For UPSC Prelims, remember that the number of LWE-affected districts has reduced from 126 in 2018 to 8 currently. This significant reduction is a key achievement highlighted by the government.

Exam Tip

Focus on the 'before' and 'after' numbers. Questions might test your memory of these figures.

2. What is Left Wing Extremism (LWE) and why is it considered a threat to internal security?

Left Wing Extremism (LWE) refers to extremist movements that seek to bring about change through violent means, often challenging the authority of the state. It's a threat because it disrupts peace, hinders development, and undermines the rule of law, especially in vulnerable regions.

3. What are the government initiatives that have contributed to the reduction of LWE affected districts?

Government initiatives include a combination of security operations to neutralize Naxalite cadres and development programs to address socio-economic grievances of the local population. These programs aim to improve infrastructure, provide education, and create employment opportunities.

4. How does the government's approach to LWE now differ from its approach a decade ago?

Based on available information, the current approach involves a dual strategy of security operations and development initiatives. While security measures have always been important, there's now a greater emphasis on addressing the root causes of LWE through development and inclusive governance.

5. What are the potential challenges that remain in completely eliminating LWE from India?

Challenges include the deep-rooted socio-economic inequalities, the presence of difficult terrain that provides shelter to Naxalites, and the need for better coordination between different levels of government and security forces.

6. What are the important dates to remember regarding the reduction of LWE affected districts?

The key date to remember is 2018, as it serves as the baseline year with 126 LWE-affected districts. The current figure of 8 districts should also be noted.

Exam Tip

Create a timeline for easy memorization: 2018 - 126 districts, Present - 8 districts.

7. How does the reduction in LWE affected districts impact the common citizens living in those areas?

A reduction in LWE activity generally leads to improved security, better governance, and increased development activities. This can result in better access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for the common citizens.

8. Why is the reduction in LWE affected districts considered a significant achievement by the government?

The reduction signifies improved internal security, effective implementation of government policies, and a positive impact on the socio-economic development of affected regions. It also reflects a weakening of Naxalite influence.

9. What are the security measures taken by the government to reduce LWE influence?

Security measures include deploying paramilitary forces, establishing police stations in vulnerable areas, and conducting targeted operations against Naxalite cadres. The aim is to neutralize Naxalite activities and maintain law and order.

10. What reforms are still needed to further reduce LWE influence and ensure long-term stability in affected regions?

Reforms could include strengthening local governance, improving the delivery of social services, promoting inclusive development, and fostering better coordination between security forces and local communities.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in India: 1. The Naxalite movement originated in West Bengal in 1967, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. 2. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 aims to address land rights of tribal communities. 3. Article 244 of the Constitution of India provides safeguards for tribal communities. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements are correct. Statement 1: The Naxalite movement indeed originated in Naxalbari, West Bengal in 1967. Statement 2: The Forest Rights Act of 2006 aims to grant land rights to tribal communities. Statement 3: Article 244 provides for the administration of Scheduled Areas and Tribal Areas.

2. In the context of government efforts to reduce Left Wing Extremism (LWE), consider the following: 1. Increased deployment of central armed police forces (CAPFs) in affected areas. 2. Implementation of development programs like MGNREGA to address socio-economic grievances. 3. Exclusive focus on security operations without addressing underlying socio-economic issues. Which of the above approaches are part of the government's strategy?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

The government's strategy involves both security measures and development initiatives. Increased deployment of CAPFs and implementation of programs like MGNREGA are part of this strategy. However, the government does not exclusively focus on security operations; it also aims to address the underlying socio-economic issues.

3. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the current situation of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in India, based on the provided news summary?

  • A.The number of LWE affected districts has reduced significantly since 2018.
  • B.The government attributes the reduction to improved security measures and development initiatives.
  • C.The number of LWE affected districts is currently 8.
  • D.The government has completely eliminated LWE from all affected regions.
Show Answer

Answer: D

The news summary states that the government continues to focus on eliminating LWE, implying that it has not yet been completely eliminated. The number of affected districts has reduced to 8, and the government attributes this to improved security and development initiatives.

GKSolverToday's News