Union Home Minister Amit Shah has set a deadline of March 2026 to eradicate the Naxalite threat. Security forces have made significant progress in 2025, with a higher number of surrenders compared to deaths among Naxalites, indicating a shift in ideology.
In Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra, 258 Naxalites surrendered in 2025, with a record 170 surrenders in Chhattisgarh alone. Since the BJP took power in Chhattisgarh in 2024, 2,100 Naxalites have surrendered, 1,785 were arrested, and 477 killed.
By the end of 2025, Abujhmad and North Bastar in Chhattisgarh were declared Naxal-free. The number of Naxal-affected districts has reduced significantly, with only three districts in Chhattisgarh still facing Naxalite presence.
The Ministry of Home Affairs reported the elimination of 312 Naxalites by October 2025, including key leaders. The surrender of Naxalites carrying significant bounties has encouraged smaller cadres to follow suit, attributed to improved coordination between central and state agencies.
Efforts by security forces, including DRG, STF, CRPF, and COBRA units, have been instrumental in the success against Naxalites. Infrastructure development initiatives in Naxal-affected areas have also contributed to changing perceptions and garnering public support.
