CRPF Forward Bases: The Central Reserve Police Force has taken a big step to improve safety in areas affected by Left Wing Extremism. Since 2019, the force has set up 229 Forward Operating Bases in regions where Naxal violence was once very strong. This move supports the central government’s clear aim to end Naxal and Maoist violence across India by March 2026, as guided by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The CRPF plays a major role in fighting insurgency in the Red Corridor. It has built these bases in six states where Naxal activity has stayed high for many years. These states include Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana, reported ANI. The new bases help security forces stay close to problem areas instead of traveling long distances from cities.
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Forward Operating Bases Importance
Forward Operating Bases are strong camps that can stay active for long periods. They give shelter to security personnel and also include communication systems, medical help and supply support. Because of these bases, forces can now live and work deep inside forests and remote villages where Naxal groups earlier had full control.
CRPF Forward Operating Bases: Year-Wise Progress and Geographic Spread
Data shared by the Minister of State for Home Affairs in a written reply to Parliament shows that the number of FOBs has grown steadily over time:
2019: 8
2020: 18
2021: 29
2022: 48
2023: 27
2024: 40
2025: 59
Chhattisgarh saw the biggest expansion in 2025 with 32 new bases out of 59 set up that year.
Impact on Security and Development
The growing network of bases has helped security forces move into areas that were once unsafe and unreachable. With a steady presence on the ground, forces have reduced Naxal influence in their core zones. Data from the Ministry of Home Affairs shows a sharp fall in affected districts. The number dropped from over 120 in the late 2010s to around 11 by late 2025.
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These bases have also helped civil officials work better in remote regions. Roads, mobile towers and welfare projects now get more protection. This makes daily life easier for local people and reduces the chances of young people joining Naxal groups.
The Forward Operating Base expansion fits into India’s National Policy and Action Plan on Left Wing Extremism, approved in 2015. This plan focuses on security, development and better governance together. Along with strong action, it supports surrender and rehabilitation for militants and stronger local policing.
