CRPF recruits 743 youths from Bastar region to fight Naxals

As many as 743 candidates, including 242 women, have been recruited by the CRPF from the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, one of the worst Naxal-hit areas, for an 'all-tribal battalion' being raised to fight Maoists. The youths have been recruited for the post of constable in the CRPF from tribal-dominated Sukma, Dantewada, Narayanpur and Bijapur districts and will join the 'Bastariya' battalion.

"743 scheduled tribes candidates, including 242 women, have been recruited," a Home Ministry official said. Bastar region comprises Sukma, Dantewada, Narayanpur and Bijapur districts of Chhattisgarh. The 'Bastariya' battalion in CRPF is a unique initiative to enhance local representation in security forces and also provide employment to youths, the official said.