Following up the development package for Maoist-affected areas, the West Bengal government on Friday announced the bifurcation of two subdivisions in Purulia, one of the three affected districts.
Officials in the Chief Minister's Office said Purulia Sadar and Raghunathpur would be divided into Manbazar and Jhalda.
This is expected to allow a close watch on many blocks including Maoist-affected areas like Bandwan, Baghmundi, Arsha and Jhalda.
Under the development package, special attention is proposed to be paid for the focussed development of Maoist-affected blocks in the three districts.
The package envisaged minor irrigation projects, to bring new areas in Jangal Mahal (the forest areas in Maoist strongholds) under cultivation.
