Bhubaneswar, March 31 -- A large-scale anti-Maoist operation is underway in the forested border areas of Kandhamal district, where only a few Maoists are still believed to be hiding. With the deadline to end on March 31 (Tuesday), security forces intensified the combing operations today.

According to official sources, Odisha is on the verge of becoming free from Maoist influence, with senior police officials confirming a significant decline in the insurgent activity. Sanjeeb Panda, Additional Director General (ADG) in charge of anti-Naxal operations, informed that only a handful of Maoists remain active in the State.

Speaking on the final phase of the anti-Maoist campaign, ADG Panda stated that eight districts have already been declared...