Modi govt does not believe in political discrimination: Nadda

Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J P Nadda today categorically stated that there would be no political discrimination with any state, irrespective of the party which ruled and that the Centre would take everyone along to accomplish 'Swastha Bharat' mission.

Nadda, who was on his first visit to Himachal after induction in the Union Cabinet, said the Narendra Modi government did not believe in political discrimination and worked for development and welfare of all states and assured that all states would get their due in health sector, and Himachal would get special preference.

Stating that he was not only Health Minister but the representative of people of Himachal in the Union Cabinet, he said he would ensure that demands of Himachal, pertaining to other departments are also met and grievances redressed.

"I have held several positions in organisations and in government during my political career spanning over three decades. But holding the charge of Health Ministry is the biggest responsibility and I seek cooperation of all," he said addressing BJP workers at the state party office.

The Minister said health is a multidimensional sector and he was trying to get a grasp of the department so that a coordinated approach could be adopted to provide best health services to people.

"Modi government believes in out-of-the-box solutions and we are preparing the action plan for strengthening the health sector and would seek suggestions from all," he said, adding, if the state took a step forward, the Centre would take ten steps to make 'Swasth Bharat' mission a success.

When pointed out that the state Health Minister has alleged that state's budget under National Rural Health Mission (NHRM) has been curtailed, Nadda said he was not aware of it, but assured that if there was any such move, he would intervene.

"Our government believes in giving and not in snatching and all the needs of Himachal Pradesh would be met," he said.

Later Nadda called on Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, who congratulated him on his induction in the Union Cabinet.

Nadda was accorded a rousing welcome at Chandigarh, Parwanoo, Solan, Shoghi and the BJP office at Shimla on his visit. Thousands of workers lined up to welcome him and turned Shimla town saffron with party flags.