M A I N   N E W S

Can’t sacrifice small traders’ interests, says Akhilesh
Shahira Naim
Tribune News Service

Lucknow, September 15
Taking up the cause of small farmers and traders, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav today made it clear that his government would not allow Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail in the state.

Addressing the media on the occasion of his government completing six months in office, Yadav said, “We would welcome if the UPA wants to allow FDI in power and infrastructure sectors. But we are clear not to allow FDI in retail. We cannot sacrifice the interests of small farmers and traders by doing so.”

The FDI policy announced by the Central government yesterday gives the state governments the right to implement or reject it.

The Chief Minister admitted that during his recent meetings with the envoys from the United Kingdom and USA, he had discussed the issue. “They spoke about the issue of investments in UP and we clearly explained our stand to them,” he said.

Responding to a question about the Samajwadi Party’s decision to support the UPA government in New Delhi, Yadav made it clear that this was a call that the party’s national leadership would take.

On a pointed question regarding SP’s preparedness for mid-term elections, he said that his party was fully geared up in case the need arose.

While the CM claimed that his party was opposed to the hike in diesel prices, he remained evasive when asked if he would consider lowering VAT on petroleum products in the state.

Meanwhile, on completion of six months in office, Yadav announced another bonanza for the state’s farmers in the form of free irrigational facilities. The scheme will be applicable with retrospective effect from April 2012.

Speaking about his six-month-old government’s achievements, he claimed to have changed the old culture by opening his doors to the people. “I have started implementing the promises made in the manifesto. We are going to take major steps to improve power production and strengthen the road network,” he assured.

Regarding the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state, Yadav said some areas needed improvement. “We are trying to improve the situation and those found guilty of dereliction of duty will soon face action. There will be a noticeable improvement very soon.”