The Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will address the nation through Doordarshan tonight at 8 pm. The Prime Minister's office has confirmed that Dr. Singh will explain to the nation the recent reasons behind the decisions taken on economic reforms. Dr. Singh is expected to spell out the reasons that prompted the government to allow FDI in multi-brand retail. He is likely to cite the difficult times facing the economy and emphasise that the step was aimed at pushing economic growth and generating employment. The thrust of the Prime Minister's message is expected to be that the step was taken in national interest.

After the Cabinet decision on the 14th of this month, Dr.Singh had said that the step was intended to bolster economic growth and make India a more attractive destination for foreign investment. He believed that these steps will help strengthen country's growth process and generate employment in these difficult times. He had also sought support of all segments of public opinion for this.

All India Radio will broadcast Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's address to the nation at 8.00 p.m. tonight in Hindi and English. Consequent to the Prime Minister's broadcast, news bulletin in English at 2000 hrs, Sports News in English at 2005 hrs and 'Samachar Darshan' at 2020 hrs will stand cancelled. Marathi news bulletin scheduled at 2005 hrs will be rescheduled and broadcast from 22.00 hrs to 2210 hrs.