‘Dimagi Naxals’ Remain A Challenge Even After Armed Naxalism Ends, Says PM Modi

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned that although armed Naxalism had been eliminated, the country still faced the challenge of what he described as ‘Dimagi Naxals’ or ideological Naxals, calling for efforts to counter their influence.

Addressing security personnel in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, PM Modi said India had made significant progress against Naxalism, separatism and poverty over the past 12 years.

Referring to a recent World Bank report, the Prime Minister said around 50 crore people had moved out of extreme poverty during this period, a development he contrasted with earlier campaigns that relied heavily on slogans.

Explaining the government’s welfare initiatives, PM Modi compared their combined impact to a rangoli, where individual patterns come together to create a larger picture. He cited schemes such as Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, Mudra loans, SVANidhi, Ayushman Bharat and free foodgrain distribution, alongside initiatives providing education, medicines and basic household facilities.

PM Modi linked poverty reduction to tackling Naxalism, alleging that extremists had obstructed development by targeting schools, healthcare facilities, vaccination programmes, mobile towers, railway lines and industries.

To address these gaps, the government expanded infrastructure and public services in affected regions.

PM Modi cited the construction of over 15,000 km of roads, installation of more than 9,000 mobile towers, establishment of nearly 200 Eklavya schools and around 50 ITIs and skill centres. He further highlighted new post offices, banks and ATMs, alongside the PM-JANMAN scheme for remote tribal settlements.

The Prime Minister highlighted rehabilitation for surrendered Naxalites and children in Bastar choosing sports over weapons.

PM Modi warned that ideological Naxalism remained a concern, alleging attempts to influence organisations and political groups against India’s Constitution and democracy.

Also Read: PM Modi Credits Decisive Leadership For Progress In Fight Against Naxalism