Working on new structure to replace Planning Commission: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told parliament Friday that his government was working to give shape to an institution that will work in place of the Planning Commission and he will discuss the issue with the chief ministers at a meeting here Dec 7.

Modi's remarks in the Lok Sabha came in response to a question whether the government had received suggestions to restructure the Planning Commission.

He said consultations were being held with people who had interest in the subject and who had knowledge.

"Efforts are being made for a new structure," he said.

The prime minister said there was thinking within the plan panel also on the need for change.

"The chief ministers have been called here Dec 7. I will discuss with them," he said.

Members of the Congress and several other opposition parties were not in the house when the prime minister spoke.

Modi had said in his Independence Day address that times had changed since the Planning Commission was created and a new institution would be set up "in a short span of time".