Wednesday, December 7 2005 17:11 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Pointing out naxal problem as a major internal security concern, the Government today (Dec 07, 2005) unveiled a multi-pronged carrot and stick policy to deal with the menace while agreeing to talk to those laying down arms.

Winding up a short duration discussion in the Rajya Sabha on internal security situation in the country, Home Minister Shivraj Patil said, "Naxal problem is causing concern and we shall have to do something".

It has to be a multi-pronged strategy and the Centre has already decided to raise 250 battalions of para-military forces besides modernising and strengthening the police force, he said.

At the same time, Patil said, the government would not shut its doors and was willing to have dialogue with all those laying down arms besides evolving plans to wean away misguided youths from violence and bring them into the mainstream by providing employment.

The Minister said he proposed to strengthen intelligence system particularly at the local level and to provide all assistance to states for economic and social development in naxal-affected areas.

Welcoming the suggestion of senior member P C Alexander to set up a research institute, he said government would consider the proposal as it would be useful in visualising and preparing a detailed plan of action to handle emerging situation from time to time.