The Center has given West Bengal a special package of 8,750 crore rupees for development of backward region of the state.

The Union Cabinet cleared the proposal of the Planning Commission yesterday.

The package is proposed to be implemented in the state's backward areas affected by Naxalism, including Jungle Mahal area, which comprises West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura.

The package is expected to cover aspects like rural employment, safe drinking water, watershed and rural road construction.

The state has been facing financial crunch as its debt stock, according to the state finances report of the Reserve Bank, was 1.9 lakh crore rupees.