News and Events

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday said the country must strive to reach 9 per cent growth by the end of the 12th plan period. Here are the highlights of the Prime Minister’s speech at the Planning Commission: * Economy grew at 7.9 per cent in the 11th plan period * 12th plan is starting in year when world is experiencing difficulties * Poverty declined twice as fast in 11th plan period * Agriculture grew much faster in this five-year plan * Have to reach 9 per cent growth by the end of the plan period * Growth to accelerate to 8.2% over 12th plan * Fiscal deficit too high * Health, education – priority sectors for inclusive growth * Agricultural growth at 3.3% * Manufacturing must grow faster * Infra needs public investment and PPP * Energy difficult area – policy needs comprehensive review * We are energy deficient. * Rational energy pricing very critical * Energy pricing out of line with world prices * Diesel price hike important step in right direction * Urbanization new challenge * Central message of plan – need policies that take care of weaknesses