The North Bengal Development Department caters, approximately, to the needs of 22% population residing in 24% of the total area of West Bengal comprising of eight (8) districts, i.e., Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling,Kalimpong,Uttar Dinajpur, DakshinDinajpur and Malda. The thrust area for developmental works differs from district to district because of the diversities and disparities within the districts of North Bengal. For example, Cooch Behar is one of the most riverine districts of the region. Similarly, about 18% of the area of Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling districts is covered by forests and both districts are dotted with numerous Tea Gardens. Kalimpong is also heavily forested. The rapidly urbanizing foothills of Darjeeling, encompassing the entire Siliguri Sub-Division and a part of Jalpaiguri district presents many challenges. The other three districts, i.e., Uttar Dinajpur, DakshinDinajpur andMalda are largely agricultural. Malda is affected every year by riverine erosion. Due consideration has to be accorded to the diverse characteristics of all the districts while preparing the annual action plan of the Department.