No district affected by Naxalism: MHA declares zero LWE districts by March 2026
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
The Union Home Ministry informed Rajya Sabha that the number of Left-wing extremism-affected districts has fallen to zero as of March 2026, down from 126 before April 2018. This milestone coincides with the neutralisation of the last CPI(Maoist) politburo member, Misir Besra. However, 37 districts remain classified as legacy and thrust areas, indicating continued vigilance.
Background
Left-wing extremism (LWE), also known as Naxalism, has been a major internal security challenge in India since the 1960s. The government has pursued a multi-pronged strategy including security operations, development initiatives, and surrender-rehabilitation schemes to counter the insurgency. The number of LWE-affected districts peaked at 126 before April 2018.
Key facts
As of March 31, 2026, no district in India is officially classified as Left-wing extremism-affected, down from 126 prior to April 2018.
The last active CPI(Maoist) politburo member, Misir Besra, was neutralised on the same day the MHA made the announcement.
In 2023, 486 Maoist violence incidents were recorded, resulting in 107 civilian and 32 security personnel deaths.
Till July 21, 2026, only 33 incidents were recorded, with 6 civilian and 5 security personnel deaths—likely all before March 31, 2026.
Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand are the only states with reported Maoist incidents in 2026: Chhattisgarh (18 incidents, 7 deaths), Jharkhand (13 incidents, 3 deaths).
States with zero incidents/deaths in 2026 include Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal, and Kerala.
Despite zero affected districts, 37 districts are still classified as 'legacy and thrust' areas requiring continued focus.
Prelims pointers
- Left-wing extremism (LWE) affected districts: zero as of March 2026
- 126 districts before April 2018
- 37 legacy and thrust districts
- CPI(Maoist) politburo member Misir Besra neutralised
- Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) statement in Rajya Sabha
- MoS Home Nityanand Rai provided the reply
Mains angles
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the government's multi-pronged strategy to counter Left-wing extremism in India.
- Discuss the significance of the reduction in LWE-affected districts and the challenges that remain in legacy and thrust areas.
- Analyse the role of development and security measures in addressing internal security threats like Naxalism.