New Delhi:
Releasing a report of the United Progressive Alliance government's three years in office, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh highlighted the achievements of his government, but admitted that they needed to do more.
Here are the highlights of that speech:
- The Annual report presents an objective statement of what we have achieved over the past year; we welcome a constructive debate on our performance.
- We need to do better but let no one doubt we have done much.
- Despite adverse international scenario, Indian economy grew by about 7%.
- Inclusive and equitable growth and put lot more resources in the social sector
- 3.3% per annum growth in agriculture in 11th 5-year plan; this year has seen record foodgrain production.
- Opened 51,000 schools, appointed 6.8 lakh teachers.
- Added nearly 10 crore new telephone connections last year.
- Internal security scenario satisfactory; seek states cooperation on tacking the menace of naxalism.
- Have to quicken pace of implementation of policies.
- Need to improve coordination between Centre and states.
- There is public frustration and anger on corruption; legislation, administrative measures will be taken against corruption.
- Difficult decisions have to be taken on spending.
- Urge all parties to rise above partisan considerations.
The UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi congratulated the her party members and allies on the occasion, and stressed on the need for the government to stick to it.
Here are the highlights from her speech:
- Several difficulties faced by govt in last 3 year
- Have helped poor through schemes like Aadhaar
- The country has faced economic difficulties but there is no scope for disappointment.
- Mandate of next Lok Sabha elections will depend on work done by UPA govt and not on its promises.
- We should stick to our path of inclusive growth
- Determined to promote secularism
- Opposition has made irresponsible charges against us, but we have not resorted to being impolite.