The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh says New Delhi is open to dialogue with every person or group in Jammu and Kashmir which abjures violence. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of historic Red Fort on the 64th Independence Day today he said centre is ready to move forward in any talks which increase the partnership of common man in governance and enhance their welfare. He deeply regretted the loss of lives in the cycle of violence which is of no benefit to any one. Observing Kashmir is an integral part of the country, Dr. Singh said democracy has the flexibility to address the areas of concern of any group in the country. He added that the consultation process with the political spectrum in Jammu and Kashmir has started with a delegation of parties exchanging views with him recently and this will be taken forward. He urged people to adopt democratic means and join hands with the government for the country's welfare. Referring to Naxalism he reiterated this is a serious challenge to the internal security the Prime Minister asserted that government will deal firmly with those who resort to violence. The Prime Minister said that centre will provide all possible help to the Naxal affected States to maintain the rule of law. He renewed the appeal by the Centre to the Naxalites to come forward for talks after renouncing violence. This, he said, will accelerate social and economic development of these areas. The Prime Minister said that the Planning Commission has been asked to formulate a comprehensive scheme towards this end . He made it clear that it is essential for the Centre and the States to work in tandem to meet this challenge. Talking about the north-east, the Prime Minister urged all political parties and groups that disputes in the name of State or Tribe can only harm the country and discussion and dialogue are the only options to resolve the complex issues. He said, Centre is ready to take forward every process of talks which could lead to progress in resolution of problems. Referring to Pakistan, he said that dialogue process cannot move forward unless Islamabad stops allowing use of the territory under its control for use in acts of terrorism against India. The Prime Minister said that India has been emphasizing this in all discussions with Pakistan. The Prime Minister said that Borlaug Institute of South Asia is being established in India and this will facilitate availability of new and improved seeds and new technology to the farmers of India and other countries in the region. this will help in increasing production and productivity. He said that the Government is keen to ensure that no citizen goes hungry. Dr. Manmohan Singh said that the challenges like climate change, falling levels of ground water and deteriorating quality of soil need to be tackled effectively to make this sector more robust.The Prime Minister expressed confidence that inflation will come down further as every possible effort is being made to tackle this.He said a series of reforms are being carried out in the education sector and Government will soon bring a Bill in Parliament for constitution of two separate Councils in higher education and health so that the reform process on in this area is taken forward.The Prime Minister said that the government is committed to maintain peace and harmony as it is their duty to protect the minorities and provide for their special needs. The Prime Minister said that Government has started many new programmes for the welfare of minorities. These include scholarships for minority students and special programmes for the development of districts which have high concentration of minorities. Dr. Singh pledged to take this process vigorously forward. He referred to a number of welfare schemes and programmes lodged by the government to ensure inclusive growth. He added every person living in the rural areas now, has the assurance of 100 days of employment through NREGA. To ensure equal partnership of women he added, several initiatives have been taken including their reservation for women in Parliament and State Legislatures. The Prime Minister said that despite robust economic growth, there are still areas of immediate concern which will be given due priority.The Prime Minister referred to the measures taken by the government in the recent past to meet the infrastructure deficit. They include construction of better roads, airports and generation of electricity etc. Referring to the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, the Prime Minister said that their successful organisation will be another signal for the world that India is rapidly marching ahead with confidence. He said that he was convinced that all countrymen will treat the games as the national festival and will leave no stone unturned to make them a success. Dr. Singh extended his heart-felt condolences to the families who lost their kith and kin in Ladakh recently. He said the entire country with the people of Ladakh and assured the people that government will do everything possible for the rehabilitation of the affected people.