Chhattisgarh to Establish Jungle Warfare School in Former Maoist Territory
The government has sanctioned the creation of a Jungle Warfare School at Karreguta Hills in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, marking a significant move to enhance counter-insurgency capabilities. This area was previously perceived as a Maoist hub. The school is set to offer specialized training to the CRPF, Chhattisgarh Police, District Reserve Guard (DRG), Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), and other security units.
According to sources, directives have been issued and preparations are already in progress. The Centre will be responsible for constructing the training facility, while the state government will develop the access road and provide basic amenities.
Location of Strategic Significance
Officials highlighted the symbolic value of Karreguta Hills, liberated from Maoist control in a CRPF-led operation in April 2025. This area, previously a secure Maoist base, will now be repurposed as a training site for forces addressing Left-Wing Extremism (LWE).
Karreguta extends over 60 kilometers, reaching elevations of up to 5,000 meters, and is characterized by caves, waterfalls, and narrow valleys—features that once concealed Maoist camps and weapons factories. Training in such realistic terrain is expected to significantly boost the readiness of security personnel.
Training Modules Inspired by Operations
Lessons from the operation in April, including comprehensive 'cave intervention' strategies, will be integrated into the school's curriculum. The training will cover survival techniques, ambush response, counter-IED operations, and high-altitude guerrilla warfare in dense forests.
CRPF’s Expanding Role
The CRPF continues to be the primary force in India's counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism efforts, with around 100 battalions, including elite CoBRA units, stationed in LWE-affected regions. The new school aims to enhance their operational effectiveness and morale in one of the most challenging internal security environments.
Officials have described the initiative as a "turning point" in combating Maoist insurgency, transforming a former rebel stronghold into a center for national security training.
