Development of Naxal areas top priority: Rajeev Shukla

NEW DELHI: The new minister of state for planning Rajeev Shukla said development in the Naxal-affected areas would be his top priority on assuming charge at the ministry.

"Naxal-hit area is our top priority. We need to focus on bringing people in these areas back to the main stream at the earliest possible. For achieving this in the 12th Plan, we will have to focus on improving inclusiveness of the development process through effective implementation of the policies," Shukla said.

He said the government should strive to achieve over 6% economic growth to ensure inclusive growth in the country. Shukla added there is a need to create awareness about the government policies among the people. Asked about perception of the Planning Commission as an armchair advisor, he said his endeavour would be create greater co-ordination among the Commission and other ministries.