Published on: 2025-06-27

Intelligence Report: From Guns to Gills – How Fish Farming is Transforming Former Naxalites in Jharkhand

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

The transformation of former Naxalites in Jharkhand from insurgency to fish farming, facilitated by government schemes, represents a significant shift in regional stability and economic development. This initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has contributed to the decline of left-wing extremism by providing economic alternatives and improving local livelihoods. The report recommends continued support and expansion of such programs to further stabilize the region.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied to ensure methodological consistency:

ACH 2.0

Former Naxalites, such as Jyothi Lakra and Ishwar Gop, have shifted from insurgency to entrepreneurship, indicating a strategic pivot towards economic self-sufficiency. This suggests a decrease in the attractiveness of insurgency as a viable livelihood.

Indicators Development

Monitoring the reduction in Naxalite activities and increased participation in government programs can serve as indicators of declining insurgency influence and increased regional stability.

Narrative Pattern Analysis

The narrative of economic empowerment through fish farming is replacing the ideological narratives of insurgency, reducing recruitment and incitement among vulnerable populations.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The shift from insurgency to fish farming reduces the risk of violence and enhances economic stability. However, the potential for resurgence exists if economic programs are not sustained or expanded. The remaining Naxalite presence in districts like West Singhbhum poses an ongoing threat that requires monitoring.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

• Expand the PMMSY scheme to other affected regions to replicate success and further reduce insurgency influence.
• Enhance monitoring of remaining Naxalite activities to prevent resurgence.
• Best Case: Continued economic development leads to the complete eradication of Naxalite influence in Jharkhand.
• Worst Case: Insufficient support for economic programs results in a resurgence of insurgency.
• Most Likely: Gradual decline in insurgency with sustained government intervention and economic support.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

Jyothi Lakra, Ishwar Gop, Om Prakash Sahu, Lakhan Singh

6. Thematic Tags

national security threats, counter-terrorism, regional focus, economic development, insurgency transformation