As rebels attempt to up-tech their equipment in a losing struggle, solar panels are appearing among the standard confiscations from Maoists in Bastar. The insurgency has long since shifted, and Maoists are finding themselves increasingly isolated in their once-large sphere of influence.

Maoists are being compelled by pressure from security forces to travel around a lot and switch camps frequently—often multiple times a night. To power/charge mobile phones, radios, and other devices while on the go, the rebels use solar panels.

It seems the government's move toward renewable energy was first taken advantage of by the Maoists. The solar panels that the Chhattisgarh State Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA) had put in relief camps, security outposts, and isolated villages a few years prior were taken by Maoists. The Maoists then turned to open thievery from the locals. Now, though, they only place online orders for electronics and solar panels.

Solar panels are lightweight, portable, and frequently collapsible, making them a perfect match for the "pitthoo" (backpack) that cadres in the Bastar range carry, according to IG P Sundarraj, who spoke with TOI.

"Maoists may use these panels to charge their wireless batteries, radios, cell phones, computers, and other electronic gadgets. The majority of them are taken from locals who received them as part of a distribution plan. However, IG Sundarraj noted that no charge was been made against Maoists for systematically stealing solar panels from a community.