PM releases PC's book on why good economics works

New Delhi, Jan 22 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today released a book of Finance Minister P Chidambaram, showering rich encomiums on his colleague describing him as an "asset" to the country .

"A View from the Outside : Why good economics works for everyone" is a collection of columns by Mr Chidambaram, originally published in the Indian Express and the Financial Express during 2002-04 when he was in the Opposition.

Pointing out that how Mr Chidambaram had made better use of the years when he was not holding any responsibility in government, Dr Singh said "Being in opposition is always a good thing for politicians...It is a humbling experience...It is also a time to reflect on the policies practised when one is in power, their positive and negative repercussions and the course corrections that may be needed." In this context, he reeled out a piece of advice to the BJP-led Opposition."I think those who are now in Opposition should learn from the way Mr Chidambaram handled spare time on his hands and make better use of their time,'' he said.

''Though I am not sure how many of them can write as well as Mr Chidambaram does, and write so intelligently! Few can match his knowledge, wisdom, experience, humour and the ease of expression!'' Dr Singh recalled his days when he was Finance Minister and Chidambaram Commerce Minister in the Narasimha Rao cabinet, and said he was greatly benefitted from Mr Chidambaram's wisdom, acumen, experience and knowledge of the functioning of a modern economy.

''He is undoubtedly one of the hardest working and most intellectually alive persons of the day. I have always been impressed by his energy and enthusiasm, and his deep commitment to his work,'' Dr Singh added.

Dr Singh said Mr Chidambaram was a great source of strength and support for him during the early years of economic reform and liberalisation.

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