UPSC Notes

India's Multi-pronged Strategy to Counter Left Wing Extremism

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

This strategy is a successful model for addressing complex internal security challenges rooted in socio-economic issues. It demonstrates effective governance, social justice initiatives, and the importance of a holistic approach for UPSC GS-II (Governance, Social Justice) and GS-III (Internal Security).

India's strategy to counter Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is encapsulated in the "National Policy and Action Plan to address LWE" (2015), which adopts a "Whole of Government approach." This comprehensive strategy integrates security measures, development interventions, and initiatives to ensure rights and entitlements of local communities.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Policy Framework

Approved in 2015, the 'National Policy and Action Plan to address LWE' aims for a holistic approach.

Strategy Pillars

Combines security-related measures (CAPFs, intelligence, infrastructure) with development interventions (roads, telecom, education, skill development, financial inclusion).

Root Cause Focus

Addresses underlying issues like underdevelopment and governance deficits in tribal and remote areas.

Community Engagement & Rehabilitation

Includes surrender-cum-rehabilitation policies, Tribal Youth Exchange Programme (TYEP), Civic Action Programme, and Jan Suvidha Kendras.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaInternal Security
Conceptual areaSocial Justice
Conceptual areaGovernance

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
Ministry of Home AffairsFormulates policy, coordinates implementation
State GovernmentsImplements measures, maintains law and order
Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)Implements security measures, community engagement
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Multi-statement analysis

Prelims angle: Policy measures

Quick revision

  • "National Policy and Action Plan to address LWE" (2015).
  • "Whole of Government approach": security, development, rights.
  • Focus on root causes in tribal/remote areas.
  • Key initiatives: TYEP, Civic Action Programme, Jan Suvidha Kendras.
  • Rehabilitation policies for surrenderees.

Elimination traps

Authority vs ministryDistinguish between the overarching policy and specific departmental schemes.

Ministry sets policy; regulator often has quasi-judicial powers.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

Internal SecuritySocial JusticeGovernance

SECURITY INFRASTRUCTURE AND LWE DEVELOPMENT

05 Aug 2026 · India's LWE strategy is a "Whole of Government" approach combining security, development, and community engagement, leading to the eradication of LWE by addressing both symptoms and root causes.

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India's Multi-pronged Strategy to Counter Left Wing Extremism

Practice writing on this topic

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UPSC Prelims PYQs on India's Multi-pronged Strategy to Counter Left Wing Extremism

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