Telangana State Governor ESL Narasimhan today stressed the need for transparency in augmenting welfare of the poor and creating a corruption free society to usher in balanced economic development in the new state. In his Republic Day address to the people of Telangana at the ceremonial programme held at the Parade Grounds in Secunderabad, he said corruption in public domain, particularly in politics has been the root cause of poverty and backwardness. Stating that economic growth in the state slumped to 4.5 per cent since 2012, the Governor said the state government has rightly prioritised social security and infrastructure as basis for balanced and sustainable development. He said his government laid emphasis on adequate funding, well thought of strategies for promoting peace, infrastructure and industrial development besides welfare of all sections to ensure fiscally sound development for the state.