Rahul's speech draws kudos from chambers

In what may be construed as an attempt to shake off the image that industry is "pro-Narendra Modi", business chambers have responded positively to Rahul Gandhi's speech in Rajasthan on Wednesday. Reacting to the speech, S Gopalakrishnan, president of the Confederation of Indian Industry, said industry is in agreement with the view that rich and poor need to work together to ensure a better future for all citizens of India. Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry president Naina Lal Kidwai, too, praised Gandhi for his speech at Alwar where he said the rail and industrial corridor being built by the government will generate job opportunities.

Although these reactions came on Thursday, a day after Rahul's speech, it's still surprising because these bodies generally do not react to election speeches.

"Business and industry are an integral part of the civil society and play a most important role in fostering inclusive growth and creating employment. Therefore, we welcome the statements of Rahul Gandhi on the subject," Gopalakrishnan said in a statement here.

"With 15-20 million more youth entering the workforce each year, the need of the hour is to ensure creation of new employment opportunities. The way forward is based on partnerships between the government, industry, civil society and most importantly, the people of this country," added Gopalakrishnan.

Kidwai said: "FICCI has been supportive of the Government of India's policy and plan on manufacturing where they have focused on building large national investment and manufacturing zones (NIMZ) and industrial corridors that intend to provide world-class infrastructure to the manufacturing sector and create jobs for millions of people."