The Union home ministry is now reviewing its strategy to deal with the Left-wing ultras firmly following the recent Naxal attacks in the country.
Sources in the ministry said a revised strategy to combat Maoist insurgents is being planned with the focus on precise intelligence, specialised training, modern equipment and faster mobility for the anti-Naxal forces.
Sources said the thrust of the operation would be undertaken by the state police forces who will have to be provided with modern weapons and systematic training.
The ministry is also finalising a new deployment plan for the central paramilitary forces — Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). This would involve re-shuffling of the forces from one area of operation to the other, sources added.
“The Cabinet has already ruled out deployment of the Army. Now the operations of the special anti-Naxal unit of the CRPF will be broadened. We will have to do with whatever force we have in our hands. Emphasis would be to provide a more rigorous and systematic training to state police personnel who will lead the fight against Naxals,” sources in the ministry added.
The Union home ministry is also looking at recruiting ex-servicemen for demining duties. Besides, the ministry is looking at possible substantial increase in the funds given to the state government for modernisation of police forces, sources added.
“The ministry may push for more anti-landmine vehicles and other armoured vehicles. With the Defence Ministry unable to provide helicopters for transportation and evacuation, the Ministry is looking at hiring private helicopter operators,” sources said.