Bhubaneswar: The Border Security Force (BSF) and Odisha Police have set a target to completely eliminate Naxal activities in the state by March 2026, officials said on Saturday.
Addressing the media, BSF IG Shiv Adhar Shrivastava said that the forces are conducting well-planned, technology-driven operations in close coordination with the Special Operations Group (SOG) and the District Voluntary Force (DVF).
“As per the instructions of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, our operations aim to fully neutralise Naxal threats in Odisha by March 2026. Every operation is carefully planned, and many Maoists are surrendering voluntarily, which strengthens counter-insurgency efforts and weakens Left Wing Extremism in the region,” he said.
The IG added that Maoists entering Odisha from Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are under strict surveillance.
“Operations by Odisha Police are progressing very well. The BSF is keeping a special watch on the KKBN region. Maoists are now moving in small groups, and our focus is on top leaders. BSF units are currently deployed in Kandhamal, Boudh, and Kalahandi districts,” Shrivastava said.
He also provided an update on operations conducted this year.
“Nineteen Maoists have been killed, six have surrendered, and eight were arrested in joint operations. In addition, 10 IEDs, eight firearms, 148 bullets, 260 improvised explosive devices, and 64 detonators have been seized,” he said.
On the future strategy, Shrivastava added, “We have been engaged in anti-Naxal operations since 2010. Our mission is progressing well, and by March 31, 2026, we aim to deliver the final blow to Naxal networks. Thereafter, depending on government directives, we will continue to operate wherever necessary.”
The IG further highlighted that the Odisha government has revised its Maoist surrender and rehabilitation policy. Rewards for surrendering Naxal leaders have been increased by 10% compared to neighbouring Chhattisgarh.
“This is intended to encourage more Naxals to surrender voluntarily at police stations or BSF camps, where we will facilitate rehabilitation,” he said.
