Saturday, February 12 2005 19:17 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Bangalore: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today (Feb 12, 2005) expressed concern over growth of naxal activities in the country and declared that the Centre would help the State tackle the menace "in every possible way."

Singh told reporters at Bangalore airport that though law and order was primarily the responsibility of the State, the Centre was equally concerned about growth of naxal activities.

"We will help them (the State) in every possible way to tackle the problem in totality," he said.

Singh also referred to the naxal activity gaining momentum in Central India and "all these areas where greater part of India's mineral resources, hydroelectric and other resources are located."

Stating that it was a cause of concern to the Central Government, Singh said the Centre has been in touch with the State Governments and would strengthen their capabilities to deal with the problem, both in the field of law and order and taking appropriate socio-economic development strategies.