Why in News?
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced that India became free from Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in March-April 2026, following sustained implementation of the National Policy and Action Plan (2015).
Key Highlights
- No district is currently categorized as LWE-affected.
- LWE-affected districts reduced from: 126 (2014) → 90 (2018) → 70 (2021) → 38 (2024) → 8 (2025) → 0 (2026).
- 37 districts are now classified as Legacy & Thrust Districts for continued security and development support.
- 1 district remains a District of Concern for continued surveillance.
National Policy and Action Plan (2015)
- Adopts a Whole-of-Government Approach focusing on: Security operations. Infrastructure and connectivity. Welfare and development. Protection of tribal rights. Good governance and financial inclusion.
Major Government Initiatives
Security Measures
- Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme.
- Modernisation of Police Forces (MPF).
- Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS).
- Assistance to Central Agencies for LWE Management (ACALWEMS).
- Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Policy for Maoist cadres.
Development Measures
- 15,189 km roads constructed in LWE areas.
- 9,497 telecom towers commissioned.
- 179 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) functional.
- 47 ITIs and 49 Skill Development Centres established.
- 6,025 post offices with banking services opened.
- Security camps are being converted into Jan Suvidha Kendras.
Other Initiatives
- Special Central Assistance (SCA) for infrastructure.
- Tribal Youth Exchange Programme (TYEP).
- Civic Action Programme (CAP) to improve community engagement.
- Distribution of over 21 lakh Forest Rights Act title deeds.
[2023] Consider the following statements:
1. According to the Constitution of India, the Central Government has a duty to protect States from internal disturbances.
2. The Constitution of India exempts the States from providing legal counsel to a person being held for preventive detention.
3. According to the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002, confession of the accused before the police cannot be used as evidence.
How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] All three
[D] None