Thursday, April 20 2006 14:43 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Pattambi (Kerala): Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today (Apr 20, 2006) asked the people of Kerala to ensure theCongress-led UDF's victory in the Assembly polls, giving the coalition second chance to complete its development agenda.

"Kerala is on the threshold of all-round development tapping on its inherent strength in areas like education, healthcare and literacy and giving a second chance to the UDF to complete the development agenda was essential," he said addressing a poll meeting here in Palakkad district on the second day of his campaign in the state.

"Lauding the achievements of the UDF Government in the past five years, he said the growth rate of 9.2 per cent achieved by the state was above the national average. The programmes set in motion by the Government could serve as models for the whole nation," he added.

"While ensuring economic development, the UDF Government in Kerala and the UPA Government at the Centre implemented several welfare schemes for weaker sections and minorities," Singh said.

He said the UPA Government had strengthened India's traditional bonds with the Gulf countries and this had boosted job opportunities for Keralites in that region.

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, KPCC President Ramesh Chennithala, CWC member Veerappa Moily and the UDF candidates contesting from the district were present.