The decks have been cleared for the setting up of an airbase near Bhilai in Chhattisgarh, which is expected to enable swifter air support for anti-Naxalite operations. The government has cleared hurdles in land acquisition for establishing the first Army and Indian Air Force bases in the Naxal-infested state, significantly increasing the military’s presence in the troubled region.
The Army, which provides training and advice to the police, will soon get its own sub-area headquarters in Chhattisgarh, spread over 3,000 acres near Bilaspur, which will be headed by a brigadier.
The IAF base, meant to give the Air Force a second-strike capability, will allow drones to overfly Maoist hotbeds and also reduce response time for helicopters in case of a confrontation between the rebels and security forces.
The airbase move has been pending for two years. While the Centre earlier denied plans to use the Indian Air Force in anti-Naxal operations, frantic efforts were made following the Dantewada massacre of 76 security personnel by Maoists.
Mi-17s and Dhruv helicopters of the IAF are being used for surveillance, logistical support and casualty evacuation of paramilitary personnel.
The government recently delegated powers to the CRPF’s IG (operations) in Naxal-hit states to requisition BSF helicopters. “At present helicopters are flown in from Nagpur, but once the airbase is set up, the response time can be minimised,” an official said.
The official acknowledged that the setting up of the airbase and the Army’s sub-area headquarters would be a strong signal to the Maoists and also “bolster development and security in the region”.
The home ministry, besides appointing military advisers to states, has also announced the setting up of new unified commands in certain states.