The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Nagpur, in collaboration with Gadchiroli Police, organised a one-day VARTALAP Media Workshop on the theme “Naxal Mukt Bharat” at Eklavya Hall, Police Headquarters, Gadchiroli, on November 4, 2026. Several journalists from Gadchiroli district participated in the workshop, which brought together senior police officials, subject experts and media professionals to deliberate on the changing security and development landscape of the region and the country's efforts to combat Left Wing Extremism.
The programme commenced with the welcome of distinguished guests, followed by introductory remarks by Shri Saurabh Khekde, Media and Communication Officer, PIB Nagpur. He highlighted the importance of VARTALAP as a platform for interaction between the Government and the media and emphasised the role of regional journalists in disseminating accurate information about Government initiatives and developments in the region.
Addressing the gathering virtually, Shri Sandeep Patil, Special Inspector General of Police, Anti Naxal Opwrations ANO, Nagpur Range, spoke on the subject of Urban Maoism and its wider implications. He highlighted how Gadchiroli has transformed from a Maoist-affected region into a Naxal-free district through sustained efforts, determined security operations and several operations of national importance. He said that Gadchiroli's journey demonstrates how a coordinated approach involving security forces, effective policing and development initiatives can bring lasting change. He also highlighted how Gadchiroli is now leading by example in the national endeavour towards a Naxal Mukt Bharat.
He highlighted the challenges posed by organised Maoist networks to constitutional democracy and explained how the Maoist movement extends beyond armed activities in remote areas.
He discussed the broader dimensions of the Maoist challenge, including its organisational structures, ideological influence and networks operating beyond conflict-affected areas. He also underlined the importance of addressing the challenge through a comprehensive approach that combines security measures with development and public awareness.
Shri Patil emphasised that the response to Left Wing Extremism must go beyond security operations and include efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, improve infrastructure and ensure the effective delivery of Government welfare schemes. He further observed that the true revolution is one brought about through the Constitution of India, dedicating this thought to Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Shri P. Y. Ramana, Policy Analyst, delivered a session on Maoist Economics, explaining the economic dimensions of Left Wing Extremism and its links with local resources and economic activities. The discussion highlighted the significance of mineral wealth, local economic structures and the financial networks associated with Maoist activities.
He also discussed the importance of understanding the economic aspects of the conflict while examining the impact of such activities on local communities and development. The session highlighted the need for informed and balanced media reporting on the economic dimensions of Left Wing Extremism.
Gadchiroli's journey in combating Left Wing Extremism
Providing an operational overview, Shri M. Ramesh, Superintendent of Police, Gadchiroli, spoke about the district's journey in combating Left Wing Extremism and the changing security scenario over the years.
He highlighted the progress made in containing Maoist activities through sustained security operations, improved intelligence gathering and coordinated action. He also referred to significant operational developments during recent years, including major operations against Maoist cadres and the increasing number of surrenders.
He noted the importance of the changing security situation in the district and the progress made through sustained efforts of security forces. The focus on preventing fresh recruitment into Maoist organisations and encouraging cadres to surrender and return to mainstream society was also highlighted.
The operational discussion covered the importance of counter-insurgency capabilities, inter-state coordination, strengthening of security infrastructure and improved intelligence and surveillance mechanisms. The role of specialised forces such as C-60 in countering Maoist activities was also discussed.
Shri Kartik Lokhande,Senior journalist, spoke on the post-Maoism scenario and discussed the changing situation in regions affected by Left Wing Extremism. The session highlighted the importance of documenting the transition taking place in such areas and bringing development-related changes and ground realities to public attention.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Shri Yogesh Kumar, IPS, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Nagpur Range, drew upon his experience of more than a decade of witnessing Gadchiroli's transformation from a Maoist-affected region towards becoming a Naxal-free district. He said that the biggest achievement of this journey has been winning the trust of local people in the Government and the mainstream. He also acknowledged the dedication, valour and supreme sacrifices of several police personnel and commandos who played a crucial role in making Gadchiroli Naxal-free. He emphasised that sustaining public trust in the system would remain a key priority.
Shri Karthik Madhira, Additional SP (Operations), Gadchiroli, and Shri Gokul Raj G., Additional SP (Administration), Gadchiroli, along with other senior police officials, were prominently present at the programme.
The VARTALAP emphasised the responsibility of regional media in reporting on the changing social and economic conditions, the impact of security operations and the rehabilitation of affected communities. It also underlined the need for balanced, fact-based reporting that captures both the challenges and the progress being made in the region.
The VARTALAP workshop provided a platform for journalists to interact with senior police officials and subject experts on the security, economic and developmental dimensions of the Naxal Mukt Bharat initiative. It highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach involving security, governance, infrastructure development, welfare delivery, rehabilitation and community participation in ensuring lasting peace. The programme also familiarised media representatives with the role of PIB in disseminating information on Government policies, programmes and achievements, while emphasising the importance of informed, accurate and responsible reporting. The workshop concluded with feedback and interaction with participating journalists.
PIB Nagpur | Saurabh Khekde/Darshana Rane
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