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By:

Abhijit Mulye

21 August 2024 at 11:29:11 am

Red flag to green steel

Ex-Maoists forge new destiny in Gadchiroli Gadchiroli: The rugged, forested terrain of Gadchiroli district, long synonymous with the violence and deep-rooted anti-establishment tenets of the ‘Red Ideology’, is now witnessing a remarkable social and industrial transformation. At the Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd. (LMEL) plant in Konsari, once-feared Maoist operatives are shedding their past lives and embracing a new, respectable existence as skilled workers in a cutting-edge Direct Reduced Iron...

Red flag to green steel

Ex-Maoists forge new destiny in Gadchiroli Gadchiroli: The rugged, forested terrain of Gadchiroli district, long synonymous with the violence and deep-rooted anti-establishment tenets of the ‘Red Ideology’, is now witnessing a remarkable social and industrial transformation. At the Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd. (LMEL) plant in Konsari, once-feared Maoist operatives are shedding their past lives and embracing a new, respectable existence as skilled workers in a cutting-edge Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) and pellet plant. This ‘green steel’ project, part of LMEL’s push for an integrated steel complex in the region, is functioning not just as an industrial unit but as a crucial pillar in the Maharashtra government’s surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy. So far, LMEL, in coordination with the state government and the Gadchiroli Police, has provided employment and training to 68 surrendered Maoists and 14 members of families affected by Naxal violence, a total of 82 individuals, offering them a definitive pathway back to the mainstream. The Shift The transformation begins at the company’s dedicated Lloyds Skill Development and Training Centre at Konsari. Recognizing that many former cadres had limited formal education, the company implements a structured, skill-based rehabilitation model. They are trained in essential technical and operational skills required for plant administration, civil construction, and mechanical operations. For individuals like Govinda Atala, a former deputy commander, the change is palpable. “After surrendering, I got the right to live a new life,” Atala said. “I am very happy to get this job. I am now living my life on my own; there is no pressure on me now.” Suresh Hichame, who spent over a decade in the movement before surrendering in 2009 too echoed the sentiments. He realized the path of violence offered neither him nor his family any benefit. Moreover, his self-respecct was hurt. He knew several languages and carried out several crucial tasks for the banned organization remaining constantly under the shadow of death. Today, he works in the plant, receiving a steady monthly salary that enables him to care for his family—a basic dignity the ‘Red Ideology’ could never provide. The monthly salaries of the rehabilitated workers, typically ranging from Rs 13,000 to Rs 20,000, are revolutionary in a region long characterized by poverty and lack of opportunities. Trust, Stability The employment of former Maoists is a brave and calculated risk for LMEL, an industry that historically faced stiff opposition and even violence from the left wing extremist groups. LMEL’s management, however, sees it as an investment in inclusive growth and long-term stability for the district. The LMEL has emphasized the company’s commitment to training and facilitating career growth for the local populace, including the surrendered cadres. This commitment to local workforce upskilling is proving to be a highly effective counter-insurgency strategy, chipping away at the foundation of the Maoist movement: the exploitation of local grievances and lack of economic options. The reintegration effort extends beyond the factory floor. By providing stable incomes and a sense of purpose, LMEL helps the former rebels navigate the social transition. They are now homeowners, taxpayers, and active members of the community, replacing the identity of an outlaw with that of a respected employee. This social acceptance, coupled with economic independence, is the true measure of rehabilitation. The successful employment of cadres, some of whom were once high-ranking commanders, also sends a powerful message to those still active in the jungle: the path to a peaceful and prosperous life is open and tangible. It transforms the promise of government rehabilitation into a concrete reality. The plant, with its production of iron ore and steel, is physically transforming the region into an emerging industrial hub, and in doing so, it is symbolically forging the nation’s progress out of the ashes of extremism. The coordinated effort between private industry, the state government, and the Gadchiroli police is establishing a new environment of trust, stability, and economic progress, marking Gadchiroli’s transition from a Maoist hotbed to a model of inclusive and sustainable development.

AI at Borders: Detecting Deception in Real Time

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AI-powered surveillance systems are redefining border control by detecting deception through micro-expressions, stress patterns, and speech anomalies.


In an era of increasing global mobility, ensuring the security of national borders has become a critical priority for governments worldwide. Airports and seaports serve as vital entry points, making them prime targets for illegal immigration, human trafficking, and other transnational crimes. Traditional security measures, such as document verification and background checks, are no longer sufficient to address the growing sophistication of deception techniques. As a result, behavioural deception detection technologies, including suspect detection systems, layered voice analysis, and AI-based emotion detection cameras, have emerged as key tools in identifying individuals attempting to enter countries under pretences.


Behavioural deception detection relies on analysing micro-expressions, physiological responses, and speech patterns to identify inconsistencies that may indicate dishonesty. One such technology is the Suspect Detection System (SDS), which combines biometric analysis, facial recognition, and stress-level assessment to evaluate passengers at border checkpoints. This system works by asking targeted questions and measuring involuntary physiological responses, such as eye movement, pulse rate, and skin conductivity. SDS has been successfully deployed in various countries to flag suspicious travellers before they proceed further into immigration clearance.


Another effective technology in deception detection is Layered Voice Analysis (LVA). Unlike traditional polygraph tests, which require physical sensors, LVA analyses vocal characteristics to detect emotional stress and cognitive dissonance. It evaluates variations in pitch, tone, and speech hesitation to identify potential deceptive behaviour. Used by security agencies worldwide, LVA has proven particularly effective in uncovering inconsistencies in the statements of travellers suspected of using forged documents or concealing their true intentions. Its ability to provide real-time deception assessments makes it a valuable tool in high-traffic areas such as airports and seaports.


AI-driven emotion-detection cameras further enhance border security by analysing facial expressions and body language. These cameras use deep learning algorithms to detect micro-expressions that are difficult to conceal, such as fleeting signs of anxiety or nervousness. By integrating these systems with existing security infrastructure, authorities can identify high-risk individuals with greater accuracy. Several countries, including the United States, the Netherlands, and Israel, have incorporated AI-based surveillance at major entry points to improve security screening processes.


Globally, deception detection measures have led to significant breakthroughs in security. In the Netherlands, the Schiphol Airport employs AI-driven travel surveillance to assess passenger risk based on behaviour patterns and travel history. In India, deception detection has played a crucial role in curbing illegal immigration at major international airports, such as Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. In 2024 alone, Delhi Police arrested 203 individuals involved in immigration fraud, marking a 107% increase from the previous year. These arrests were made possible through enhanced behavioural analysis techniques and advanced document verification methods.


Statistical insights further emphasise the importance of deception detection in immigration security. In 2024, Delhi Police's crackdown on fraudulent immigration agents led to a record number of arrests, with most offenders hailing from Punjab (70), Haryana (32), Delhi (25), Uttar Pradesh (25), and West Bengal (17). Such figures underscore the prevalence of immigration fraud across various regions and highlight the need for ongoing advancements in deception detection technologies.


The scope of behavioural deception detection in India is vast, with significant opportunities for enhancement. By integrating AI-powered emotion detection, real-time voice analysis, and biometric monitoring, Indian airports and ports can strengthen their security frameworks. Investing in advanced training programmes for immigration officers, fostering international collaborations, and leveraging AI-driven analytics can further bolster national security. Public awareness campaigns on the risks of immigration fraud can also act as a deterrent, ensuring a more secure and transparent border control system.


(Dr. Kumar is a retired IPS officer and forensic consultant to the Assam government. Reddy is Forensic Psychologist and Industrial & Corporate Security Professional.)

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