In the Indian state of Assam, thirty-six separatist rebels from the Bodo tribe have surrendered to the authorities.

This is the first time fighters from the National Democratic Front of Bodoland NDFB have given themselves up in significant numbers.

Correspondents describe the development as an indication of disaffection within the NDFB's ranks.

Hundreds of people have died during the organisation's five-year campaign for an independent Bodo homeland.