Bhubaneswar: In a bid to intensify anti-Maoist operations and encourage insurgents to surrender, the Odisha government has revised its Naxal Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy.
The updated policy offers increased financial incentives and broader eligibility, allowing Maoists from other states to surrender in Odisha and access rehabilitation benefits.
Home Department of Odisha government has issued a notification in this regard.
As per the notification, the Odisha government has introduced new rules in the rehabilitation package for Naxalites, extending benefits to all-in-India cadres. The revised policy, announced within two months, offers rehabilitation facilities to Naxalites within 60 days of surrender.
Key highlights of the revised policy include increased financial assistance up to Rs 1.1 crore for Central Committee or Politburo members, Rs 55 lakh for State Committee members, and Rs 33 lakh for Regional Committee members.
Surrendering Maoists will also receive additional incentives for handing over arms and ammunition. This includes Rs 4.95 lakh for a Light Machine Gun (LMG), Rs 3.30 lakh for an AK-47 rifle, Rs 1.65 lakh for an INSAS or SLR rifle, Rs 550 per grenade, and Rs 55 per bullet. Those surrendering without weapons will receive Rs 25,000 extra. Furthermore, Maoists with a bounty exceeding Rs 5 lakh will be entitled to a Rs 10 lakh fixed deposit.
The revised policy aims to accelerate peace efforts and weaken Maoist activities through security measures and rehabilitation support.
