Odisha revises Maoist surrender policy; rewards up to Rs 1.10 crore announced

In a renewed effort to accelerate anti-Maoist operations and encourage cadres to join the mainstream, the Odisha government has revised its Naxal surrender and rehabilitation policy, introducing enhanced financial incentives and expanding its scope.

This marks the second amendment to the policy in the past two months. Under the revised framework, Maoists from other states will now be allowed to surrender in Odisha and avail benefits under the state’s rehabilitation and resettlement scheme.

The Home Department has issued a fresh notification detailing the updated provisions.

Rehabilitation Within 60 Days

As per the new guidelines, surrendered Maoists will receive rehabilitation benefits within 60 days of laying down arms. The scheme will apply to Maoists currently active in Odisha. In addition, Odisha-cadre Maoists will be eligible for a special rehabilitation package.

Officials said the revised policy is aimed at expediting the reintegration process and offering structured support to former insurgents willing to renounce violence.

Enhanced Financial Incentives

The government has significantly increased the financial assistance linked to surrender.

• Members of the Central Committee or Politburo will be eligible for benefits up to Rs 1.10 crore.
• State Committee members will receive up to Rs 55 lakh.
• Regional Committee members will be entitled to Rs 33 lakh.
• Sources said Maoists carrying a bounty of more than Rs 5 lakh will also be eligible for an additional fixed deposit of Rs 10 lakh under the scheme.

Weapon-Based Incentives

The revised package also provides specific incentives for surrendering with arms and ammunition.

• Rs 4.95 lakh for a Light Machine Gun (LMG)
• Rs 3.30 lakh for an AK-47 rifle
• Rs 1.65 lakh for an INSAS or SLR rifle
• Rs 550 per grenade
• Rs 55 per bullet
• Those surrendering without weapons will receive an additional assistance of Rs 25,000.

Focus on Peace and Reintegration

The state government reiterated its commitment to eliminating Left Wing Extremism and restoring normalcy in affected districts. Officials stated that the enhanced policy is designed to encourage more Maoist cadres to abandon insurgency and reintegrate into society.

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The government has set a target of making the country Naxal-free by the end of March and expressed hope that the revised surrender policy will contribute significantly to achieving lasting peace in Maoist-affected regions.