Jaipur:
UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi speaks at 'Chintan Shivir' in Jaipur. Here are the highlights:
We are the only pan Indian party with a visible and viable position in every village.
We articulate the concerns of all, especially weaker sections of society like Dalits, women.
We should look at the strengths, weaknesses, threats
Significant number of participants from younger generation, this reflects our priorities.
Priority on issues related to atrocities against women and children and what must be done for empowerment.
We have to strike a fine balance between respecting alliances and ensuring rejuvenation of Congress party.
In some cases, historic legislation by UPA has not been translated into political support... I hope that will be discussed.
We are the only party that believes that development and social harmony are two sides of the same coin.
Our government issues huge financial help for states for women empowerment. However, lot depends on implementation.
I must say with great anguish and pain that discrimination against the girl child and atrocities against women are a blot on our collective conscience.
Gender issues are fundamental and should be of concern to all of us.
We cannot allow growing educated middle classes to be alienated from the political process.
I want all of you to speak your mind. We are here on business that will determine our future.
On Indo-Pak dialogue: Let us be very clear, our dialogue must be based on accepted civilized behaviour.
People are expecting much more from political parties.
We must address the growing concerns over corruption people face in their daily lives.
I want all of you to speak your mind - we are here on business that will determine our future.
We should be coming together and set aside our personal ambitions and ego so that the party thrives.
We must build leadership at all levels and performance must be the ladder of advancement.
It is our sacred duty to respond to call of unity.
Our party's victory lies in the victory of each one of us.