HRD and Communications Minister Kapil Sibal has taken opposition to task for stalling the reform process and obstructing the pro people policies of the Government. Addressing a gathering of leading NRIs in Dubai yesterday, he said that stalling the parliament , obstructing an informed debate and creating roadblocks to reforms will only hinder India’s growth. The Minister said the stalling tactics by opposition on several issues have bruised India’s image in the outside world. He cautioned that the belief in India growth story for the outside world is willy nilly being destroyed by the opposition just for the sake of political gains.
About the FDI in multi brand retail he said, it has been allowed with safeguards which will protect the interests of people and the local industry. It will create jobs, help set up local industries and spur economic growth. Mr. Sibal explained that the FDI which was initially applicable for 53 cities with a population of over 1 million, is now confined to 18 cities since the 35 other cities are in opposition ruled states which are against the move. He said the quality and economy of scales would drive the retail sector forward in India.
The Telecom Minister said the growth in telecom sector has shown clearly that India is poised for a better tomorrow. With a record 965 million mobile phones, India currently has the lowest call charges in the world. He said that an extensive infrastructure in cyberspace is being created by the Government.
At a coast of 4 billion dollars, all the village panchayats will be connected through the broadband network by the end of 2013. More than 400 universities and 14000 colleges have been connected with the National Knowledge Network so that they can take classes from anywhere and get credits. The Minister told that education sector holds the key to the success of the country in the long run. The emphasis will now be on making the pattern of learning simpler, child friendly, with many choices. Emphasis will be on vocational education in grade 9-12 and a quality higher education through professional accreditation bodies.
Mr. Sibal said India is proud of its NRIs and their contribution to the India growth story. The Minister urged the NRI businessmen and enterpreneurs to look in for long term investment in India and become the partners in progress of their motherland.
