The persistent drive of governments to foster the development of large industries in backward areas has inadvertently led to the marginalization and isolation of tribal populations and farmers, who often bear the brunt of multiple displacements. This phenomenon is particularly evident in regions like Malkangiri and Naxalbari, where the focal points of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) have emerged. The repercussions of such policies are profound, as they exacerbate existing socio-economic disparities and alienate communities from the mainstream narrative of progress. In addressing this complex issue, corrective strategies must be multifaceted and holistic.
Firstly, any strategy aimed at countering LWE must prioritize inclusive development that considers the needs and aspirations of tribal populations and farmers. This entails adopting a participatory approach that involves stakeholders in decision-making processes related to land acquisition, resource utilization, and development projects.
Secondly, efforts should focus on empowering local communities through education, skill development, and job creation initiatives. By equipping individuals with the necessary tools and opportunities, they can actively participate in and benefit from the economic growth of their regions.
Thirdly, there is a critical need for enhanced governance mechanisms to ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of rights for marginalized communities. Strengthening institutions responsible for land rights, environmental protection, and social welfare can help mitigate grievances and prevent further alienation.
Moreover, fostering dialogue and reconciliation between authorities and disenfranchised communities is essential for building trust and fostering cooperation. This involves acknowledging historical injustices, addressing grievances, and fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
Tag: Linkages between development and spread of extremism.
Decoding the Question:
- In Introduction, write a contextual introduction with the use of examples.
- In Body
- Discuss in brief how big projects lead to multiple displacements
- Discuss strategies to win LWE doctrine with larger integration from a social and economic point of view.
- In conclusion, try to write suggestions in brief.
Answer:
Since independence, it has been evident that large-scale displacement due to various developmental activities has taken place. At the same time multiple displacements due to the repeated acquisition of land in the areas of Malkangiri and various other mining districts of the country. This displacement and cultural affection made people and tribals get attracted to the Naxalite movement and even today tribal youths are more or less involved in Naxal activities. The Naxalite movement and related violence have become the biggest challenge for India’s internal security.
Left-wing Extremism organizations are the groups that try to bring change through violent revolution. They are against democratic institutions and use violence to subvert the democratic processes at the ground level.These groups prevent the developmental processes in the least developed regions of the country & try to misguide the people by keeping them ignorant of current happenings.
Reasons for LWE:
- Tribal discontent:The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 deprives tribals, who depend on forest produce for their living, from even cutting a bark.Massive displacement of tribal population in the naxalism-affected states due to development projects, mining operations and other reasons.
- Easy Target for Maoists: Such people who do not have any source of living are taken into naxalism by Maoists.Maoists provide arms and ammunitions and money to such people.
- Gaps in the socio-economic system of the country:Government measuring its success on the basis of number of violent attacks rather than the development done in the naxal-affected areas.
- No Follow-Up from administration: It is seen that even after police take hold of a region, administration fails to provide essential services to the people of that region.
- Confusion over tackling naxalism as a social issue or as a security threat.
- State governments consider naxalism as the central government’s issue and thus are not taking any initiatives to fight it.
Socio-Economic Measures:
- The Backward Regions Grant Fund (BRGF) under which 55 of the worst affected areas in 9 states were to be provided with funds to tackle the problem of Naxalism.
- Financial Infrastructure: Opening up of banks, ATMs, and post offices in coordination with the Department of Financial Services and Department of Post.
- Skill Development: Skill development for tribal youths is one of the key areas to improve the employability and economic situation of tribal citizens and other people in India’s eastern districts.
- MGNREGA: This is a pioneering scheme to create social and economic infrastructure in tribal and mining-affected areas. This scheme has been working as the main channel to bring people from these areas into the mainstream.
- Aspirational District Programme: This scheme is a very significant intervention to create various infrastructures which make a path for economic development and generate significant employment.
- Security-related Expenditure: Improving the security scenario is the biggest factor that economic activities are taking place. A secured environment makes possible investments come in tribal areas. Industrialization with the involvement of tribals and other people will make this developmental model very successful.
- Other Schemes: National Health Mission (NRHM), Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and other income-generating and social security schemes of the Ministry of Rural Development, Agriculture, Panchayati Raj and Tribal affairs. The central government will also provide 100 percent assistance in the formation of Ashram schools and hostels for girls and boys in 46 tribal areas.
The Government has taken various interventions for socio-economic development. But still, various challenges remain and need to be addressed. To make EK BHARAT SHRESTHA BHARAT the contribution from tribals and project displaced people’s contribution is very much essential.
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