Prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh has said that his government has been able to achieve encouraging growth rate despite the worst global economic slowdown. He reiterated that the focus of the government will remain on inclusive growth.Citing various human development indices, the Prime Minister said, the UPA's welfare programmes have improved the life standards of the people, particularly, the vulnerable sections.Dr. Singh was replying to the debate on the Motion of Thanks on President's address to the Joint Sitting of both the Houses of Parliament in the Lok Sabha today. Later, the House adopted the motion by voice vote after negating several opposition amendments.The Prime Minister, during his 45-minute long reply, compared the achievements during the 9-year rule of UPA with the 6-year regime of the NDA government.He said, the average growth rate of GDP has been 7.9 per cent as against less than 6 per cent achieved during NDA period. The agriculture sector has touched 3.7 per cent growth rate as against NDA's 2.9 per cent.Dr Singh also outlined the progress made by his government in sectors like agriculture, education, skill development, health, life expectancy and elimination of regional inequalities.He said the agriculture sector remained a priority of his government. Rebutting BJP's remarks about the lack of political authority in the Congress leadership, Dr. Singh quoted a Hindi proverb that thunder clouds will not always give rain amidst thumping of desks by members.Sharing the concern of the members over women's safety, the Prime Minister said that his government is committed to ensure dignity, safety and security to every woman. He appealed for consensus on enacting an effective legislation to check offences against women.Referring to the issue of Tamils in Sri Lanka, the Prime Minister said, India will favour a meaningful political settlement in the island nation. On China, he said, the dialogue on boundary settlement is on.He said the process of normalization of bilateral issues with Pakistan is being taken forward. The Prime Minister expressed hope that free, fair and inclusive election will take place in Maldives in September to bring stability and prosperity.On Afghanistan, Dr Singh said, New Delhi will continue to help rebuild the war ravaged country.