Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi on Friday claimed that activities of almost all militant groups active in the state have been brought under control and called for a strong strategy to counter the threat of maoists in the northeastern region.

"The maoists have of late selected the northeastern region because it is important for them as it has long borders with foreign countries. As in other areas, the northeastern states should adopt a strong strategy and remain cautious," he told reporters here on the completion of the first year of his third consecutive term in office.

"They are spreading their tentacles and we should be cautious and thus it is important to train up the police force particularly those who are posted in rural and underdeveloped areas to counter them," he said.

Development can solve the problems created by either the maoists or other insurgent group and so the thrust area in the second year would be to generate employment with emphasis on skill development, he said.

Expressing satisfaction that the law and order situation was under control, Gogoi said apart from the Paresh Baruah section of ULFA and a faction of karbi peoples liberation tiger (KPLT), talks were being held with the other 14 militant groups in the region.