The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Nagpur, in collaboration with Gadchiroli Police, organized a one-day VARTALAP Media Workshop on the theme "Naxal Mukt Bharat" at Eklavya Hall, Police Headquarters, Gadchiroli, on November 4, 2026. The workshop brought together senior police officials, subject experts, and media professionals to deliberate on the changing security and development landscape of the region and India's efforts to combat Left Wing Extremism.
Shri Sandeep Patil, Special Inspector General of Police, Anti Naxal Operations, Nagpur Range, addressed the gathering virtually and highlighted how Gadchiroli has transformed from a Maoist-affected region into a Naxal-free district through sustained efforts, determined security operations, and operations of national importance. He emphasized that the response to Left Wing Extremism must go beyond security operations and include efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, improve infrastructure, and ensure effective delivery of Government welfare schemes.
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, including the significance of mineral wealth and financial networks associated with Maoist activities. Shri M. Ramesh, Superintendent of Police, Gadchiroli, provided an operational overview of the district's journey in combating Left Wing Extremism, highlighting progress through sustained security operations, improved intelligence gathering, coordinated action, and increasing number of surrenders.
Shri Kartik Lokhande, Senior journalist, spoke on the post-Maoism scenario and the importance of documenting the transition in affected areas. Shri Yogesh Kumar, IPS, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Nagpur Range, emphasized that the biggest achievement has been winning the trust of local people in the Government and mainstream society, while acknowledging the sacrifices of police personnel and commandos. The workshop emphasized the responsibility of regional media in reporting on changing social and economic conditions, the impact of security operations, and rehabilitation of affected communities, requiring balanced, fact-based reporting.