FM to head eGoM on Naxals

New Delhi, Sep 20 (UNI) Finance Minister P Chidambaram will head the empowered Group of Ministers (eGoM) on Naxals, a new mechanism announced by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on September six.

Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia will also be a member.

Home Ministry sources said more focus was being made now towards the developmental aspects of the naxal-affected areas to wean away the youth from the influence of extremist elements.

"In all probability, the Finance Minister will head the eGoM on naxals because of the new focus on development which requires huge funds," the sources said.

The Home Ministry has been working on the proposal to set up a "Naxal desk" in the ministry to monitor the implementation of development projects in naxal-infested areas.

An additional secretary will head the desk. One Inspector General of Police (IG) and two DIGs would be taken on deputation from the para military forces.

UNI SH SP VA KN1940