FDI in multi-brand retail in farmers' interest: Hooda

New Delhi Aug 31: Haryana Chief Minister

today pitched for

in multi-brand retail, saying it is in the interest of farmers as well as small-time traders.

"I am always supporting FDI in retail because it is in the interest of farmers as well as consumers, small traders and small scale entrepreneurs. I support it," he said adding that "being a farmer I can say that".

The decision to allow 51 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail was announced in November last year. However, its implementation was put on hold after strong protests from various parties including key UPA-ally Trinamool Congress.

Addressing a function here, Hooda said the proposed policy is a "progressive" step and for a small state like Haryana where 40 per cent of the area falls within the NCR region, this policy would create a "win win situation for all stakeholders".

He said during the last seven years the state's economy grew at 9.4 per cent, which was much higher than the growth rate of the nation's economy.

The state has capitalised investment of about Rs 61,000 crore since 2005 and investment of about Rs 97,000 crore is in the pipeline, he said.

PTI