Bhubaneswar, November 29, 2025 – In a firm assertion of its operational priorities, the Border Security Force (BSF) has reiterated its commitment to eradicate Maoist presence from Odisha by March 2026, marking it as a key strategic target for the paramilitary force. The announcement comes amid intensified anti-Maoist operations in the state, combining technology-driven initiatives with coordinated actions alongside the Odisha police and other central armed police forces.

Speaking to the media on Saturday, BSF Inspector General Shiv Aadhar Shrivastava outlined the force’s comprehensive strategy, emphasizing the use of “technology-driven, hard-hint-based, meaningful operations” to dismantle Maoist networks and secure the region. He highlighted that areas once considered cut-off and deeply infiltrated by Maoists have now been transformed into what the force calls Swabhiman Anchal, a symbol of state authority and civic order.

Redeployment and Operational Focus

The IG detailed that the BSF has redeployed its personnel in the district of Kandhamal, establishing new units and maintaining sustained anti-Maoist operations even in challenging terrain. “The redeployment has weakened the Maoists and forced them to surrender before the police and join the mainstream of society,” Shrivastava said, emphasizing that the operations are intelligence-driven and meticulously planned, focusing on blocking entry routes from neighboring states such as Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh.

Since its operational engagement in Odisha began in 2010, the BSF has deployed six battalions across Maoist-affected districts, including Koraput, Malkangiri, Boudh, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Rayagada, and Nabarangpur. The force has achieved significant milestones during this period: 86 Maoists neutralized, 710 arrested, 2,508 Maoists and their supporters surrendered, and 566 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and live bombs defused.

Comprehensive Approach Beyond Combat

IG Shrivastava stressed that the BSF’s commitment extends beyond battlefield achievements. Recognizing that lasting security depends on the confidence and prosperity of the local population, the force has simultaneously carried out civic action programs, tribal youth exchange initiatives, and community engagement activities. These measures are aimed at fostering trust, addressing local grievances, and offering pathways for former insurgents to reintegrate into society.

“The greatest bulwark against extremism is the trust and prosperity of the local population,” Shrivastava said, underscoring the importance of socio-economic initiatives in the fight against Maoism. He also highlighted the role of the state government’s surrender policy, which provides a 10 per cent additional incentive to encourage Maoists to return to the mainstream.

Ongoing Challenges

Despite significant progress, the BSF acknowledges that challenges remain. Dense forests in districts such as Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Boudh continue to provide cover for Maoist activity, and the threat of IEDs persists. Furthermore, the socio-economic impact of Maoist-linked narcotics trafficking and ganja cultivation poses additional hurdles to restoring security and normalcy in affected areas.

“These are not just operational challenges but also societal ones,” another BSF officer noted. “Eradicating Maoist influence requires addressing the underlying conditions that allow extremism to persist, including poverty, lack of education, and limited livelihood opportunities in remote areas.”

Looking Ahead

The BSF’s efforts in Odisha reflect a long-term strategy that balances kinetic operations with community development. By combining intelligence-based operations, sustained engagement with local populations, and a focus on rehabilitation and reintegration, the force aims to systematically dismantle Maoist networks while preventing resurgence.

The upcoming 61st Raising Day of the BSF on December 1, 2025, will also serve as an occasion to acknowledge the force’s efforts in counterinsurgency operations across the country. Shrivastava emphasized that the focus on Odisha is part of a broader national mandate to combat left-wing extremism and ensure the security and stability of vulnerable regions.

“Our commitment is comprehensive,” the IG said. “While the operations are designed to neutralize active threats, equal attention is given to winning hearts and minds, providing avenues for education, employment, and socio-economic development, and ensuring that the rule of law prevails in areas previously dominated by insurgents.”

Conclusion

With March 2026 set as the target for eliminating Maoist influence in Odisha, the BSF continues to pursue a dual strategy: aggressive intelligence-driven operations to weaken the insurgents, coupled with civic and community engagement to strengthen public trust. As the paramilitary force intensifies its presence in remote districts and engages both insurgents and local communities, Odisha stands on the threshold of a transformative shift in security and governance, aiming for a future free from extremism and violence.