President Pratibha Patil underlines private sector role in energy revolution

MUMBAI - President Pratibha Patil on Wednesday gave a call to explore public private partnership model for energy revolution and nation’s development.

Speaking after inaugurating a power, energy and telecom summit in Mumbai, the President said the success of public private partnerships, in creating critical infrastructure should also be explored for an energy revolution that will ensure energy security.

The President pointed out that there was a need of power linkages to provide electricity to all and it was the time to draw a multi-pronged strategy for energy revolution in the country.

In her address, President Patil said that many infrastructure projects like roads, highways and airports have come up through this route of Public Private Partnerships in the country.

Stating that inclusive growth demands significant contribution from the private sector, the President laid stress on innovation in the field of science and technology to meet future challenges including growing demands for electricity.

Pointing out that that the country suffers from an infrastructure deficit, the President said that the government is taking steps to augment the infrastructure and there is a forward movement on this front.

President Patil said that with a strong economy, India would maintain a robust growth rate in the coming years.

Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan, Union Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, and Deputy Chief Minister Chagan Bhujbal were present on the occasion.(ANI)