PM calls for support to UDF for stable Govt

Kannur, Kerala, Apr 20 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today called upon the people of Kerala to support the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in the Assembly elections as it alone could provide a stable, sound and transparent government.

Addressing a poll rally at Iritty in the district, he said the UDF governmment had taken up several schemes for the welfare of all sections of people during the last five years.

The UDF with its forward-looking policies could eradicate poverty, create job opportunities and ensure rapid economic development.

Kerala's gross domestic product (GDP) had grown by nine per cent last year, faster than the national average, he said and stressed the need for having world-class infrastructure to attract investments and transform the state into a hub of knowledge-based industries.

Dr Singh said the UPA government at the Centre was responsive to Kerala's needs and it had cleared several projects including the Rs 2,000-crore international trans-shipment container terminal in Kochi, which would further accelerate the state's economic growth.

Referring to the proposal for an airport in Kannur, the Prime Minister said it would be a reality soon.

UNI BR AA KD KN2056