Voting on FDI in multi-brand retail to take place in the Rajya Sabha today. The government has said that FDI in multi-brand retail trade will benefit the common man and small and marginal farmers in the country. Intervening during the discussion on an opposition motion against FDI in the Rajya Sabha yesterday, Law minister Ashwani Kumar said it would transform the lives of farmers.

Earlier, initiating the discussion on the motion disapproving the government's decision to allow FDI in the multi-brand retail sector, AIADMK leader V K Maitreyan said the government never consulted the State Chief Ministers on the issue.

Leader of the Opposition Arun Jaitley said the country will have to pay a heavy price if FDI in retail is allowed. Participating in the discussion,BSP leader Ms. Mayawati announced that her party will oppose the motion against FDI and will go with the government in the division of vote.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh exuded confidence that the decision on FDI in multi brand retail will get the approval in Rajya Sabha as well. When asked about the vote in Rajya Sabha Dr. Singh told reporters in Parliament House yesterday that he is confident on winning the vote.