Addressing members of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), here today, the minister said, "Reflect before you exercise your franchisee and vote for the people (read political parties) who can deliver on the ground."
In his hour-long speech, Chidambaram highlighted the achievements of Congress-led UPA government. Stating that the good governance can ensure economic growth, he highlighted how the tax revenue of the government more than doubled between 2003-04 and 2007-08. The government achieved this despite bringing down the taxes across the board.
"This means there is more money in the hands of the government to spend on education, health and infrastructure of the country," he said.
The government has succeeded in bringing all sections of the society into the mainstream that were left out like farmers, SCs/STs, backward classes, minorities and people practicing small occupations, he said.
"Growth is the starting point. Without growth we cannot spend and growth can be achieved with good governance," he added.
Focussing on Karnataka's budget for 2008-09, Chidambaram said he had upped its plan size by 22 per cent over last year to Rs 21,751 crore. He, however, qualified that a higher plan allocation can produce the best results only if there is good government.
