Zeenews Bureau
Jaipur: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday said the UPA government was more successful than the NDA in reducing poverty and bringing inclusive development but was not very effective in communicating it to the people.
Speaking at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) meeting here, he said gross domestic product and agricultural growth rate were faster during the eight-year United Progressive Alliance government (UPA) compared to the six years of National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government.
He said the government had not received all the credit for its work due to shortcomings in its communication strategy.
"Probably, our communication strategy is not very effective," Manmohan Singh said, adding that there was a need to communicate the success of the government effectively.
He said some opposition-ruled states had claimed credit for central schemes and Congress workers needed to explain the correct picture to the people.
Commenting on the recent ceasefire violations at the Line of Control (LoC) and the beheading of an Indian soldier by Pakistani troops, Dr Singh said that such actions has cast a "negative impact" on bilateral ties.
Emphasising on having friendly relations with Pakistan, the Prime Minister said that India wants to have friendly relations with its neighbour, but the latter should also take some steps.
We take a consistent review of our ties with Pakistan. The incident has cast a negative impact on our ties. We will take steps with care and due consideration," he said addressing a meeting of AICC here.
"We want friendship with Pakistan. They should also make efforts in this regard. It is not possible only with our efforts," the Prime Minister said.
Addressing the Congress leaders and workers, the Prime Minister said “Government is committed to a strong Lokpal”. He also expressed confidence of passing the bill the ombudsman bill soon.
Referring to the brutal gang-rape that shook the nation, Dr Singh said that there is a need to create environment where women feel safe.
Keeping in view of the next year General Elections and, the Prime Minister said that next generation is more aware and ambitious and their demands must be fulfilled.
Admitting that that there has been a rise in prices in recent times, he assured of taking strong steps in 2013 to strengthen the economy.
"The main reason has been an increase in international prices of petroleum products. Second, the prices of crops had been raised substantially for the benefit of farmers," he said.
With agencies inputs
