Sonia Gandhi says UPA Govt. has increased funds to States

NEW DELHI - Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday said the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government at the Centre has increased in unprecedented levels the funds being made available to all States irrespective of the party in power for development and social programmes.

“It is unfortunate and ironic that many State Governments claim credit for programmes and schemes that are formulated and funded by the Central Government,” said Sonia Gandhi, while addressing a meeting of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) here today, which is being held after 13 years.

“We are conscious of the role that we must play in spreading awareness about the source of these programmes and schemes, while at the same time, ensuring their timely and effective delivery,” she added.

Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said that the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government will always try to ensure that economic development reaches the poorer and weaker sections of society.

“Our party has always worked for the weakest and poorest sections of society. We want an economic development, which is equitable. The UPA Government had in the last six and a half years always looked after the welfare of the ‘aam aadmi,” he added.

The Prime Minister hailed the efforts of Congress Party President Sonia Gandhi for uplifting the lot of common man.

“Sonia Gandhi has given a new direction to the Congress in the last 12 years,” he added.

Dr. Manmohan Singh said the Party has been working efficiently towards the betterment of common people under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi.

He further added that the party’s policy on economic development is meant for all sections.

Dr. Manmohan Singh said that the country and society need the governance of a powerful party like Congress to deal with crucial issues like Naxalism and terrorism. (ANI)