Guwahati, Feb 21: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the government aims to completely eradicate Naxalism in India by March 31, 2026. He was speaking at the 87th CRPF Day Parade, the first-ever held in the Northeast.

Shah praised the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for its role in reducing stone-pelting incidents in Jammu and Kashmir to zero, controlling ethnic violence in Manipur, and dismantling Maoist strongholds over the past three years. He highlighted Operation Black Forest in the Karreguta Hills along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border in April-May 2025, which neutralized 31 Naxals and destroyed their hideouts despite extreme conditions.

Reflecting on past security challenges, Shah noted that areas once affected by terrorism, Naxalism, and insurgency are now contributing to national development. He acknowledged the sacrifices of CRPF personnel, including 700 in the Northeast, 780 in Naxal-affected regions, 540 in Jammu and Kashmir, and 79 in Assam.

For the first time in its 86-year history, the CRPF’s foundation-day parade was held in Assam, with eight contingents from across India participating, including women personnel. The event featured rifle drills, commando simulations, and jungle-warfare demonstrations. Gallantry and distinguished service medals were awarded to CRPF personnel for their service.

CRPF Director General G P Singh reaffirmed that Operation Black Forest had significantly weakened Naxal forces and supported the March 31, 2026, elimination target.