Terrorism, insurgency need to be tackled with firm hand: PM

New Delhi, Feb 1 (IANS) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday emphasised that "terrorism, insurgency and extremism need to be tackled with a firm and yet sensitive hand" as a requirement for rapid economic growth.

"It is one of the primary responsibilities of any government to ensure the rule of law. In addition, an atmosphere of peace and communal harmony is also a pre-requisite for rapid economic growth," Manmohan Singh said while inaugurating a two-day conference of state chief secretaries here.

The first of a kind conference aimed at formalising the process of interaction with states and union territories is expected to serve as a standing forum for exchange of views and provide an occasion for interaction on internal matters.

"The law and order machinery has to be sensitized to the key security concerns that affect us. Terrorism, insurgency and extremism need to be tackled with a firm and yet sensitive hand," said the prime minister.

"You have to be aware not only of local and regional happenings but also of pan-India and trans-border developments."

Over the next two days, issues relating to the latest trends in technology, emerging global challenges and opportunities and key security concerns and the role of state governments would be discussed. Global developments that have a bearing on the country would also be deliberated upon.