Monday, August 22 2005 16:40 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Medak (AP): Poverty will be eradicated in next five to ten years through the implementation of various beneficial schemes, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said here yesterday (August 21, 2005).

Speaking after formally distributing the land 'pattas' among the landless poor, Dr Singh said eradication of rural poverty is priority of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government.

Complimenting the Andhra Pradesh Government's initiative, the Prime Minister said land distribution would help bringing people above the poverty line.

Talking of the UPA Government's efforts in uplifting the poor, Dr Singh said Bharat Nirman Programme in the country would bring relief to the underprivileged classes.

He said the Centre is concerned about the road map to uplift the economy and in this direction several plans have been drawn, including improving infrastructure like Power, Road Connectivity and also the banks have been advised to extend loans to rural people in order to benefit from the schemes launched for the poor section of the society.

The Prime Minister said the Union Government will support the State Government in grounding the irrigation projects and also help in tackling drought conditions.

Medak district, which was once represented in Lok Sabha by late Indira Gandhi, would be a model district in all aspects with the joint efforts of Centre and State Government, Dr Singh said, adding, that the issue of fluoride contaminated water will be tackled and safe drinking water would be provided in all rural areas of the country.