Overview
The Ministry of Home Affairs announced that, as of March‑April 2026, LWE has been eradicated from all districts of India. The achievement follows the National Policy and Action Plan to address LWE (2015) and coordinated actions of the Centre and State governments.
Key Developments (2021‑2026)
- Number of LWE‑affected districts fell from 126 (2018) to zero in 2026.
- One district remains a ‘District of Concern’ for surveillance; 37 are ‘Legacy & Thrust’ districts needing continued support.
- Central security assistance of Rs 3,805.04 crore was released for operational costs, police modernisation and rehabilitation under the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme.
- The Surrender‑cum‑Rehabilitation Policy provides Rs 5 lakhs to senior cadres and Rs 2.5 lakhs to others, plus a three‑year stipend of Rs 10,000 per month for skill training.
- Infrastructure boost: 663 fortified police stations built; 1761 crore sanctioned under the Special Central Assistance scheme; 9,497 telecom towers erected.
- Development initiatives include 15,189 km of roads, 179 Eklavya Model Residential Schools, 47 ITIs, 49 Skill Development Centres, 6,025 post offices with banking, 1,804 bank branches and 1,321 ATMs.
- First Jan Suvidha Kendra inaugurated at Netanar, Jagdalpur (Shaheed Veer Gundadhur Seva Dera Kendra).
Important Facts & Figures
Between 2021 and 2025, total central outlay for LWE‑related schemes reached Rs 4,430.23 crore. The Special Infrastructure Scheme contributed Rs 329.33 crore. Over the last five years, violence data show a sharp decline: VPM deaths fell from 361 in 2021 to 33 in 2025, and civilian deaths dropped from 97 to 6.
Exam Relevance
This case illustrates the interplay of internal security, federal‑state cooperation, and development‑oriented governance – core topics for GS 2 (Polity) and GS 3 (Economy). Aspirants should note how a policy framework (National Policy and Action Plan) integrates security forces, financial schemes, and welfare programmes to address a long‑standing insurgency.
Way Forward
Even after declaring zero LWE districts, the government must maintain surveillance, sustain development projects, and ensure livelihood generation to prevent relapse. Strengthening local self‑governance through Panchayati Raj, expanding Jan Suvidha Kendra networks, and continuing financial support under SCA will be crucial. Monitoring the impact of rehabilitation packages and ensuring rights of tribal communities will help consolidate peace and promote inclusive growth.