Rajnath promises unbiased cooperation to states

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said that the BJP-led NDA government would rise above party politics and cooperate with all states, including Uttar Pradesh, on development.

"We have assured UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav that the Centre will extend full cooperation and support in developmet of the state," Rajnath said, and promised there would be no discrimination on the basis of politics.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech on Independence Day, Singh said, "His vision is being appreciated everywhere. Instead of reading out a statement, he spoke extempore and whatever he had in his heart, he put it before the people of the country."

The Union Minister recalled the announcing of schemes like insurance for poor, bank accounts for all, and concern for women's security, and commended Modi for it.

"Within three months, India's overall image has got a boost internationally. Those, who were not ready to give visa till yesterday, are now extending invitation," he said, referring to the participation of heads of SAARC countries at Modi's swearing-in ceremony, the decision to appoint an Indian as head of BRICS bank and US President Barack Obama's invitation to the PM.

Rajnath said concrete steps were being taken to bring economy back on track, but it was not something which becomes evident in four or six months, as it takes at least one to two years.

On the issue of inflation, he said compared to the corresponding period last year, the rates have eased.