( Rephrasing paras 1 and 2)

Srinagar, May 25 (UNI) Giving a fillip to the dialogue process, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today decided to set up working groups on strengthening relations between the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir, strengthening of relations across the Line of Control and three other critical issues with an aim to establish credible mechanism to carry forward consultation among various political groups and segments.

This decision was endorsed by the second roundtable on Jammu and Kashmir.

"I would like to propose that we set up working groups comprising members from amongst those present or those nominated by parties and groups, who could look more closely at the broad issues and problems", Dr Singh said in his closing remarks at the roundtable.

He said the setting up of the working groups would be the best way to move forward and ensure that the views of different segments are incorporated in the process.

The working group on strengthening relations between the Centre and the state would deliberate on matters relating to the special status of Jammu and Kashmir within the Indian union.It will also discuss effective devolution of powers among different regions, sub regional and ethnic aspirations.

The National Conference has demanded a working group on the issue of autonomy. The demand was made by Party chief Omar Abdullah in the roundtable today.

Dr Singh said the working groups should also be established on Confidence building measures across segments of society in the state, Economic development and ensuring good governance.

The working group on LOC has been asked to recommend steps for simplifying procedures to facilitate travel, increase goods traffic and expand people to people contact including promotion of pilgrimage and group tourism, besides opening up new routes such as Kargil-Skardu.

On the economic development,the groups would evolve strategy for balanced economic development and employment generation.Similarly on the Good governance it was directed to consider effective measures to increase accountablity and transparency and strengtheneing of self government.

The Prime Minister said that each group would be headed by a convenor."The composition of the working group would be decided in consultation with all of you,but this may take some time.

UNI SMA/PMD RP HT1700