Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has appealed the Prime Minister to grant a special package for total rehabilitation of around six thousand surrendered militants who laid down arms in the State following the Government’s offer for peace talks. He requested Dr. Manmohan Singh to provide adequate funds so that the former militants are provided with proper skill development training for their meaningful employment.An official press release issued at Guwahati said the Prime Minister agreed with the Chief Minister’s proposal and assured him to take up the matter with the Planning Commission. The Chief Minister who met Dr. Singh at his South Block office in New Delhi yesterday also apprised him of the latest law and order situation. The ongoing peace talks with the banned United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and the steps taken to prevent Maoist influence in the State also figured during the 25-minute discussions with the Prime Minister.Chief Minister Gogoi also met UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and discussed various issues concerning the State. Mr. Gogoi apprised her about the steps being initiated by the State Government to reduce Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR).