India's Internal Security: Naxalism Declines, Northeast Insurgency and Terrorism Remain Important Challenges

India's internal security environment has undergone significant changes over recent years.

For decades, the country faced multiple internal security challenges, including Left-Wing Extremism, insurgency in the Northeast, separatist violence and terrorism.

However, the government now believes that several of these traditional security challenges have been substantially reduced.

On October 17, 2026, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan stated that India's internal security landscape had changed significantly.

Addressing the passing-out parade of the 78th Regular Recruit batch of the Indian Police Service at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad, he highlighted the decline of Naxalism, reduced insurgency in the Northeast and the weakening of homegrown terrorism.

The changing Naxal situation

Left-Wing Extremism has historically affected several states, including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra and parts of Andhra Pradesh.

The movement created serious challenges for governance, infrastructure development, policing and civilian security.

Security operations, intelligence improvements, road construction and development programmes have contributed to reducing the influence of Maoist organisations.

However, continued vigilance is necessary because isolated armed groups and local networks may still pose security risks.

Northeast India

The Northeast has experienced several decades of insurgency involving different organisations and political movements.

Peace agreements, negotiations, security operations and improved connectivity have contributed to reducing violence in several areas.

However, Manipur continues to face serious security and law-and-order challenges.

The government has extended AFSPA in specified disturbed areas of Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh for another six months beginning October 1, 2026.

In Manipur, the notification excludes areas under 13 police stations across five districts.

The next generation of internal security

The government is increasingly emphasising technology-driven policing.

The Smart Border Initiative, mentioned in the Home Minister's message to the IPS trainees, includes:

• Modern surveillance systems.
• Digital monitoring infrastructure.
• Improved intelligence coordination.
• Integrated security databases.
• Better communication between agencies.
• Advanced border management technology.