Raman makes a case for RAF-like force

In the past couple of years, Chhattisgarh has been the worst affected state and its problems are compounded by the fact that it is sandwiched between six states. Extremists can easily sneak into the neighbouring state and escape from being apprehended, he said.

8220;The first condition that needs to be fulfilled is a national policy on Naxalism on the lines of Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast. It should be kept in mind that it is an inter-state movement and different states following different policies could only prove counter-productive,8221; he said, after the meeting, citing the example of a ban on the movement in one state when efforts were being made to kickstart talks simultaneously in another state.

His focus was on evolving an 8220;integrated strategy8221; for states that should be framed after a study by a committee comprising experts drawn from different ministries. He made a case for joint policing of the inter-state borders, setting up of a national school of jungle warfare and access to technology by all states that would serve as a force multiplier.