BSF Targets Maoist Eradication in Odisha by 2026

The BSF plans to eliminate Maoists from Odisha by March 2026 through strategic, technology-driven operations. Achievements include transforming areas like Swabhiman Anchal and significant arrests. Challenges persist in Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Boudh. The effort is supported by Odisha police and aims to weaken Maoist influence.

The Border Security Force (BSF) is on a mission to eradicate Maoists from Odisha by March 2026, according to a senior officer's statement on Saturday.

BSF Inspector General Shiv Aadhar Shrivastava highlighted the use of technology-driven operations, alongside Odisha police and other central forces, to meet this target. A major success has been the transformation of Swabhiman Anchal from a Maoist stronghold.

Additional efforts include redeployment in Kandhamal and longer operations in challenging terrains. With significant successes like the neutralization of 86 Maoists and the surrender of 2,508, the threat persists in areas like Kalahandi due to IEDs and narcotics trafficking.

(With inputs from agencies.)