Development occurred in the remote village of Tekulagudem in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh. The installation of the first mobile phone tower marked important step towards enhancing communication in a region plagued by Naxal violence. This initiative is part of the Government of India’s broader strategy to eliminate Left Wing Extremism (LWE) by March 2026.
Background of the Area
Sukma district is known for its challenging terrain and ongoing conflict with Naxal insurgents. The government has recognised the need for improved infrastructure to support local governance and security operations. Tekulagudem is located near the Bijapur district, another area affected by LWE.
Establishment of the Mobile Tower
The mobile tower was erected within a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp on March 13, 2025. This facility, operated by the CRPF’s 150th battalion, will provide essential connectivity to Tekulagudem and nearby villages like Timmapuram, Jonaguda, and Puvarti. The installation is expected to facilitate better communication for both locals and security personnel in the region.
Significance of the Tower
The tower’s installation is vital for several reasons. It enhances communication capabilities in a previously isolated area. Access to mobile services can improve emergency response times and support local development initiatives. This connectivity is also crucial for the ongoing anti-Naxal operations by security forces.
Impact on Local Communities
The mobile tower is anticipated to benefit the local population . On the day of the tower’s inauguration, SIM cards were distributed to villagers, enabling them to access mobile services. This development is expected to encourage a sense of security and community engagement.
CRPF Operations and Security Challenges
The establishment of the Tekulagudem forward operating base in January 2024 was a strategic move against Naxal insurgents. The base has faced challenges, including a deadly attack that resulted in casualties among security personnel. Despite these challenges, the CRPF has successfully expanded its presence in the region, establishing over three dozen bases to combat LWE.
Future Developments
The installation of the mobile tower is part of a larger plan to enhance security and infrastructure in Chhattisgarh. The government aims to open additional security bases in the region, which will further support anti-Naxal operations and community development.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the impact of mobile connectivity on rural development in conflict zones.
- Discuss the role of the Central Reserve Police Force in countering Left Wing Extremism in India.
- Analyse the socio-economic implications of establishing communication infrastructure in remote areas.
- Critically discuss the challenges faced by security forces in Naxal-affected regions of India and their strategies to overcome them.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the impact of mobile connectivity on rural development in conflict zones.
- Enhances communication for emergency services and local governance.
- Facilitates access to information, education, and health services.
- Encourages local businesses and economic activities through better connectivity.
- Promotes community engagement and social cohesion among residents.
- Supports security operations, improving safety and stability in conflict zones.
2. Discuss the role of the Central Reserve Police Force in countering Left Wing Extremism in India.
- Acts as a primary security force in anti-Naxal operations across affected regions.
- Establishes forward operating bases to enhance operational capacity and local security.
- Engages in community development initiatives to build trust and cooperation.
- Utilizes intelligence-led operations to dismantle Naxal networks effectively.
- Works in collaboration with local administrations to improve infrastructure and governance.
3. Analyse the socio-economic implications of establishing communication infrastructure in remote areas.
- Improves access to markets, leading to economic growth for local farmers and businesses.
- Enhances educational opportunities through online resources and connectivity.
- Facilitates better healthcare access, reducing mortality rates and improving quality of life.
- Encourages investment in local infrastructure and services, encouraging development.
- Reduces isolation, empowering communities to engage with broader socio-political processes.
4. Critically discuss the challenges faced by security forces in Naxal-affected regions of India and their strategies to overcome them.
- Face geographical challenges in difficult terrains, requiring specialized operational tactics.
- Confront ambushes and attacks from well-organized Naxal groups, necessitating enhanced intelligence.
- Struggle with local population’s mistrust, leading to community engagement initiatives.
- Experience resource constraints, prompting partnerships with local governments and NGOs.
- Develop adaptive strategies, including technology use and capacity building for local forces.
