Linkages between Development and Spread of Extremism — Current Affairs 2026
Current Affairs Connections
Government launches comprehensive tribal development package for LWE-affected districts
March 2024The government's announcement of a ₹50,000 crore tribal development package specifically targeting Left Wing Extremism-affected districts demonstrates the continued relevance of the development-extremism nexus. The package focuses on education, healthcare, skill development, and infrastructure in tribal areas, directly addressing the root causes that extremist groups exploit. This initiative represents an evolution in counter-extremism strategy from purely security-focused approaches to integrated development-security models.
UPSC Angle: UPSC is likely to test candidates' understanding of how this package addresses specific development deficits that fuel extremism, its constitutional basis under Articles 46 and 244, and its potential effectiveness compared to previous initiatives like the Integrated Action Plan.
Surrender of 1,000+ Naxalites in Chhattisgarh following development initiatives
January 2024The mass surrender of Naxalites in Chhattisgarh, attributed partly to improved development outcomes and livelihood opportunities, validates the development-extremism linkage theory. The surrenders coincided with improved road connectivity, mobile network coverage, and implementation of welfare schemes in previously inaccessible areas. This development demonstrates how addressing basic development deficits can weaken extremist recruitment and support base.
UPSC Angle: This event provides contemporary evidence for the development-extremism nexus and is likely to appear in questions about counter-extremism strategies, effectiveness of development approaches, and evaluation of government policies in internal security.