Amending land act vital for rural infrastructure: Modi

Khandwa, March 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday made a strong pitch for amending the existing land acquisition law, saying it will enable creation of better rural infrastructure.

Modi made a strong appeal to all members of the Rajya Sabha to support initiatives of the union government that will enable fulfilment of the mandate given to the government for development.

"Amendment of the existing land acquisition act is essential to enable creation of rural infrastructure, including roads, houses for poor, schools, hospitals and irrigation projects," he said, addressing a gathering of farmers on the occasion of laying foundation stone of stage two of Shree Singaji Thermal Power Project here.

The Prime Minister made a passionate appeal to farmers not to be misled by those who were trying to project the government's initiatives for development as "anti-farmer".

The government is likely to table the amended version of the land act for discussion and passage in the Lok Sabha on March 9. While the bill might get a smooth passage in the lower house, the numbers are stacked against it in the Rajya Sabha.

Describing energy as the key to development, he reiterated his commitment to provide power to all.

The power generation has gone up by about 11 percent in the last nine to 10 months, since the new government has assumed office, he said.

Modi emphasized the importance of saving energy, and mentioned the government's programme of providing LED bulbs for homes and streets.

The Prime Minister said his government was committed to curb corruption, giving the example of successful auction of coal blocks, which would also benefit Madhya Pradesh in a big way.

IANS