Bengal delegation demands "hilly area" status for 7 districts

New Delhi, Dec 20 (UNI) A twelve-member delegation from West Bengal Legislative Assembly led by State Industry Minister Nirupam Sen along with Congress leader Manas Bhuiya called on Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath at his office here today.

The delegation urged Mr Kamal Nath to grant "hilly area status" to the seven districts of North Bengal which are not only ''hilly and backward but are vulnerable to external pressure.'' They said if this status is granted to the seven districts it would enable the State Government to win investments in those areas.

The investments in these areas would not only generate resources but would also create avenues for fresh employment.

In the recent past this region is witnessing a rise in militancy as the youth have no job employment opportunites there, they added.

Mr Nirupam Sen said Mr Kamal Nath had assured the delegation that he would seriously look into their demands.

The delegation had earlier called on External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee at his office and requested him to take up the matter with the concerned ministry.

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