Bhubaneswar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the government is determined to eliminate Naxalism from the country by March 31, 2026. He said security forces have intensified operations and expressed confidence that the goal will be achieved within the timeline.
Addressing the 57th Raising Day ceremony of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in Mundali, Odisha, Shah said the force has made a significant contribution to anti-Naxal operations in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. He said the country is now on the verge of becoming free from Naxalism.
Shah said attempts to create a Red Corridor from Tirupati to Pashupatinath will fail, and security forces will establish their dominance in the affected regions.
The minister said the CISF has emerged as a strong pillar of industrial security after completing 56 years of service. He further said the journey of the force from its inception to its current stature reflects dedication and courage.
Shah noted that India’s ambition to become the world’s largest economy requires rapid industrial development. He said such development needs a secure environment and added that the CISF plays a vital role in protecting key industrial and strategic assets across the country.
The home minister said the Ministry of Home Affairs has recently decided to entrust the security of all ports in the country to the CISF. He went on to say that the force has consistently acted as a shield for national infrastructure and economic activity.
Shah also highlighted the sacrifices made by CISF personnel in safeguarding critical installations, according to an official statement. He said the force has maintained an unwavering commitment to its duties over the years.
Shah added that over the past 56 years, the CISF has demonstrated its efficiency as a force by receiving 13,693 medals for gallantry and distinguished service.
During the event, projects worth Rs 890 crore related to CISF infrastructure were launched. Shah laid the foundation stone for three residential complexes in Kamrup, Nashik, and Sehore and inaugurated two residential complexes in Rajarhat and Delhi. These facilities aim to improve living conditions for CISF personnel and their families.
Shah said the CISF currently provides security to 70 airports and 361 important institutions across the country. He also noted that the force has been designated as the nodal agency for drone security.
The minister also said the CISF will strengthen security along the country’s maritime infrastructure after taking charge of port security. He added that the government has asked the force to develop a hybrid security model to provide protection to private industrial groups using modern technology.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Union home secretary, the director general of CISF, and other dignitaries attended the ceremony.
