Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday asserted that Naxalism in India would be completely eradicated by the March 31, 2026 deadline set by the government. Speaking at the 87th CRPF Day Parade, the first-ever held in the northeast, Shah highlighted the pivotal role played by CRPF and CoBRA forces in breaking the back of Maoist insurgents in just three years. He noted that Naxalism had spread across 12 states and multiple districts, but coordinated operations and determined action have successfully weakened the network. Shah praised the forces for their courage, discipline, and unwavering dedication in achieving this monumental task.
Operation Black Forest and Tactical Success Against Maoists
Shah singled out Operation Black Forest in the Karreguta Hills on the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border as a defining moment in India’s fight against Naxals. Conducted over 21 days in extreme heat of 45 degrees Celsius, the operation resulted in the elimination of 31 Naxal operatives and dismantled key strategic bases. “The CRPF jawans displayed exceptional courage and did not retreat even an inch while operating in challenging terrain,” Shah said, praising the force’s tactical efficiency. Several CRPF personnel were honoured for their bravery, including 14 jawans who received the Police Medal for Gallantry, while five battalions were recognised for outstanding operational performance. The event was attended by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, CRPF Director General G P Singh, and other dignitaries.
At 87th CRPF Day Parade held in Assam, distributed medals for meritorious service to personnel of the force. Decorated 14 soldiers with Police Medals for gallantry, 5 with President's Police Medals and 5 battalions were awarded trophies. pic.twitter.com/1Y1PYZ9Qux
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 21, 2026
CRPF’s Expanding Role in Internal Security
Highlighting the broader role of the CRPF in India’s internal security, Shah emphasised the force’s contributions across multiple fronts, including Jammu and Kashmir, the northeast, and Naxal-affected regions. He noted that stone-pelting incidents in Jammu and Kashmir have dropped to zero, allowing peace and development to take root. The minister also praised the CRPF for safeguarding national events such as the Amarnath Yatra and Maha Kumbh. Shah recalled the sacrifices of over 2,270 personnel who lost their lives protecting the nation, including 700 in the northeast, 780 in Naxal-affected regions, and 540 in Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring that peace in these former hotspots has enabled economic and social progress.
CRPF’s Growth and Milestones
Tracing the history of the CRPF, Shah noted that the force began in 1939 with just two battalions and has grown to 248 battalions with 3.25 lakh personnel, making it the world’s largest Central Armed Police Force. The parade showcased eight contingents, including women personnel, the Rapid Action Force, CoBRA units, and regional formations, performing precision drills, jungle warfare simulations, and high-risk hostage-rescue exercises. Shah concluded by reaffirming that the elimination of Naxalism is within reach, crediting the CRPF’s unparalleled dedication and the government’s strategic planning for the transformation of India’s internal security landscape.
