The expectations surrounding the Centre's bold steps to curb Maoists and Naxals can be met only if the government initiates sincere efforts for the development of the affected areas. While the marching in troops can provide immediate relief, sound economic and social policies in the red corridor can ensure an end to the menace.

 

The Centre is taking all the right steps, with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announcing a Rs 7,300 crores development package and withdrawing more than 1,00,000 petty cases against the tribals in Jharkhand.

 

The government must, however, ensure the schemes are implemented properly and the developmental efforts are sustainable and inclusive. The efforts require a high level of commitment that will be difficult to find, given the past records of both the Centre and the state governments of Chhatisgarh, Orissa, Jharkhand and Maharshtra.

 

Poverty has affected the tribal districts to such a an extent that, the tribals here believe that it is better to die in a fight than die of hunger, or worse, see their families die. No development work has taken place in Lalgarh in the last one year. Ironically, the last team of bureaucrats that visited the gram panchayats in Lalgarh recently, had promised BPL cards in two weeks, which is yet to be fulfilled.

 

The only way to end the war permanently, is through rapid and inclusive growth, keeping in mind the interests and rights of the villagers and the tribes.