Odisha Government Enhances Maoist Surrender Package to Boost Rehabilitation

The Odisha Government has announced a significant revision to its Maoist surrender and rehabilitation policy, offering enhanced financial incentives to encourage insurgents to return to mainstream society.

Under the new scheme, rewards vary depending on the weapon surrendered and the cadre’s rank. Maoists surrendering with a Light Machine Gun will receive Rs 4.95 lakh, while those handing over an AK-47 rifle will get Rs 3.30 lakh.

Surrendering an SLR rifle will fetch Rs 1.65 lakh. Additionally, Maoists carrying a bounty of Rs 10 lakh will be granted an extra Rs 5 lakh upon surrender.

To further ease reintegration, the government has pledged to withdraw minor cases registered against surrendered Maoists.

At the leadership level, incentives rise sharply: Politburo and Central Committee members will receive Rs 1.10 crore, State Committee and Special Zonal Committee members Rs 55 lakh, Regional Committee members Rs 33 lakh, and Divisional Committee members between Rs 22 lakh and Rs 27.5 lakh.

Officials emphasised that the revised package is designed to reduce insurgency, promote peace, and provide a structured path for rehabilitation.