eGoM to discuss developmental needs of naxal-affected states

New Delhi, Feb 18 (UNI) The developmental needs of the naxal-affected states will be discussed at a meeting of the empowered Group of Ministers (eGoM) on Naxalism here tomorrow, ahead of the general budget for 2007-2008.

The meeting, to be chaired by Home Minister Shivraj Patil, will look into all aspects of the naxal issue and suggest measures to combat it.

However, the focus would be on evolving a strategy to address the development needs of the areas infested by Maoists so that the backwardness of such areas could be effectively removed, according to Home Ministry sources.

The Home Ministry believes that the lot of the tribals and others in the backward areas in nine naxal-affected states should be improved to defeat the efforts of the naxal elements to trap more youth into their system to wage war against state.

Among the states affected by naxal violence, Chhattisgarh would receive special attention as it accounts for the highest casualties from naxal attacks in the past few months.

The situation in other naxal-hit states had started showing signs of improvement.

Finance Minister P Chidambaram and Tribal Affairs Minister P R Kyndiah will also attend the meeting which would also discuss the inter-sate dimension of the naxal movement.

Besides the three central ministers, the eGoM also has some of the Chief Ministers of naxal-infested states.

The eGoM on Naxalism was constituted last year in the wake of a suggestion to this effect by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at a meeting of the Chief Ministers on Internal Security.

More UNI