The Centre is examining the possibility of setting up joint Special Task Forces of the nine states affected by Naxalism to overcome the menace.

The STFs will be on the lines of the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka STF that killed forest brigand Veerappan.

"The feasibility of setting up joint special task forces among the states to overcome the problem of state boundaries coming in way of coordinated anti-Naxalite operations shall be explored," a senior home ministry official said on Wednesday.

He said the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka police's STF shared their  experiences in dealing with Veerappan during the second meeting of the Special Task Force at Raipur on Tuesday.

Useful tactical lessons were drawn during the meeting, which was headed by Special Secretary in the Home Ministry Anil Chowdhary, the official said.

He said the home ministry would provide more assistance to the states to help them effectively meet the challenge posed to internal security by Naxalites.

The ministry will also increase the strength of Central police forces in the affected states and arrange for specialised training in guerilla and jungle warfare at the facilities of such forces, the official said.

The communications network of the police force will also be upgraded and funds for security-related items will be provided. Besides, the ministry will also accelerate the pace of socio-economic development of Naxal-affected districts, the official said.