MAINS SYNOPSIS UPSC – JAN 08

Syllabus GS III Challenges to internal security

Examine the challenges security forces encounter in addressing Naxalism in remote regions. Discuss how technological and tactical advancements can enhance the effectiveness of anti-Naxal operations.

(15 marks, 250 words)

Introduction
Naxalism, inspired by Maoist ideology, represents one of India’s most significant internal security challenges. Predominantly active in remote, forested regions, Naxal groups leverage difficult terrain, local grievances, and socio-economic underdevelopment to sustain their insurgency. Combating this menace poses unique challenges to security forces, necessitating the integration of advanced technology and innovative tactics for effective counter-insurgency operations.

Body

Challenges Faced by Security Forces in Combating Naxalism

1. Challenging Terrain:
   Naxal-affected regions are characterized by dense forests, rugged landscapes, and poor connectivity, hampering mobility, logistics, and surveillance.
   
   • Example: Bastar’s dense forests in Chhattisgarh provide natural cover, enabling Naxals to conduct ambushes and evade pursuit (Ministry of Home Affairs, 2023).
2. Local Support to Insurgents:
   Socio-economic grievances such as poverty, displacement, and lack of development foster local support for Naxal groups. This complicates intelligence gathering and operational planning.
   
   • Example: The People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) derives its strength from tribal communities in Dantewada (CPI-Maoist Report, 2022).
3. Infrastructure Deficiencies:
   Remote areas often lack basic infrastructure like roads, communication networks, and healthcare facilities, which limits the operational efficiency of security forces.
   
   • Example: Poor road connectivity in Jharkhand’s Naxal-dominated regions continues to impede force mobility (CAG Report, 2022).
4. Limited Intelligence and Coordination:
   Fragmented intelligence networks and poor coordination between central and state forces often result in operational lapses.
   
   • Example: The Sukma ambush (2021) exposed intelligence-sharing failures between the CRPF and state police (MHA, 2022).
5. Guerrilla Tactics by Naxals:
   Naxals rely on ambushes, IEDs, and hit-and-run tactics, exploiting their knowledge of terrain and weaknesses in security force preparedness.
   
   • Example: The 2020 IED attack in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, caused significant casualties among security personnel (MHA, 2021).

Technological Advancements in Anti-Naxal Operations

1. Drones and UAVs for Surveillance:
   Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) enhance reconnaissance in dense forests, enabling real-time tracking of Naxal movements.
   
   • Example: UAVs were used in Sukma, Chhattisgarh, to locate insurgent camps, leading to successful operations (MHA Report, 2023).
2. Night Vision and Thermal Imaging:
   Advanced imaging tools improve operational effectiveness during low-light conditions, crucial for night operations.
   
   • Example: Forces in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli have thwarted night-time Naxal activities using thermal imaging (DRDO, 2022).
3. GIS and Satellite Mapping:
   Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and satellite mapping aid in strategic planning, identifying strongholds, and optimizing resource deployment.
   
   • Example: GIS mapping has significantly improved operational planning in Chhattisgarh (ISRO Report, 2023).
4. AI-Based Predictive Analysis:
   Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools process data from multiple sources, enabling predictive modeling of Naxal activities.
   
   • Example: AI surveillance systems in Jharkhand have enhanced tracking of insurgent movements (NCRB, 2023).

Tactical Innovations in Anti-Naxal Operations

1. Guerrilla Warfare Training:
   Security forces are now trained in guerrilla tactics to match the insurgents’ hit-and-run strategy.
   
   • Example: Andhra Pradesh’s Greyhounds are renowned for their effective counter-insurgency operations.
2. Improved Coordination Between Forces:
   Strengthened synergy between state police and central forces like the CRPF ensures better resource sharing and intelligence flow.
   
   • Example: Successful joint operations in Odisha’s Malkangiri (MHA Report, 2022).
3. Decentralized Command Structures:
   Allowing field-level officers more autonomy improves decision-making during critical situations like ambushes.
   
   • Example: Decentralized command in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, enhanced response to a 2021 Naxal ambush.
4. Community Engagement and Intelligence Networks:
   Engaging local communities and using tribal informants provide actionable intelligence for targeted operations.
   
   • Example: Recent raids in Jharkhand’s Latehar district were successful due to accurate local intelligence (MHA, 2022).

Conclusion
The fight against Naxalism demands a multi-pronged approach integrating advanced technologies, innovative tactics, and grassroots engagement. Strengthening security forces with better resources, training, and intelligence capabilities while addressing socio-economic grievances through development initiatives will ensure sustainable peace and stability in affected regions.