Rahul links energy security to economic growth

Wednesday, 23 July 2008, 00:31 IST
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New Delhi: Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday linked energy security to maintaining nine percent growth and eradication of poverty in his speech during the debate on the United Progressive Alliance government's trust motion. Participating in the debate that started after the motion for confidence was moved by the prime minister on Monday, Gandhi said: "Energy is needed for nine percent growth rate. Without (adequate energy), growth will stop." Gandhi's speech was repeatedly disrupted by the opposition, finally forcing Speaker Somnath Chatterjee to adjourn the Lok Sabha till 2 p.m. India's growth rate is projected at eight percent or less in the current fiscal in view of zooming inflation. In 2007-08, the Indian economy grew at a rate of nine percent. Inflation for the week ended July 5 was 11.91 percent.
Source: IANS