Sources conversant with the closed-door meeting revealed that at least two Collectors sought a joint-framework to tackle the situation. The IAS officials, who raised the issue noted that ‘brokers’ who carry themselves around as man-power supply agents thrive in the illegal trade.  

“The agents, who supply man power use the poor economic condition of the families to force the gullible to take up the ‘outstation’ jobs,” the sources quoted the officials as reporting in the meeting. 

The CM ordered that top priority would be accorded to identify the agents, who supply manpower to the gangs involved in illegal red sanders smuggling to put an end to the menace. It was also decided to roll out a comprehensive rehabilitation package for the target areas where the state would train the villagers on raising crops such as pepper, among others.