RAIPUR: For better strategies against left-wing extremism in the red zone of Chhattisgarh, the State government has raised four exclusive battalions of local youths, mostly tribals, from the seven restive districts of Bastar region and Rajnandgaon adjoining Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli. The selection process of the big police recruitment drive has been unique.
The plan, approved by the state and funded initially by the Centre, will soon see locals as India Reserve (IR) Battalion commando force engaged in the guerrilla warfare tactics. A 12-day long physical qualification test was held followed by a written exam simultaneously in each district.
“Around 4,000 candidates have been selected for four IR battalions to fight the Maoists. The local recruits will help anti-Maoist campaign in a big way as they are familiar with the topography of the land, the region’s culture and the language,” ADGP (CAF, STF & Training) Sanjay Pillay said.
With the addition of four, Chhattisgarh will now have 13 IR battalions.
“Locals have the advantage of gathering human intelligence faster, which can be very helpful. Employment generation will also secure the trust of the masses,” DIG Ratanlal Dangi said.