This refers to Pratik Gupta's article "What to expect from a new government" (Equity Outlook, Market Mind, April 7). India is a young country with more than 65 per cent of its population below 35 years of age. Since unemployment is one of the pressing problems, the new government's first task will be to create employment opportunities for the the youth. Sustained economic growth with investment in infrastructure projects such as improving roads, investing in labour-intensive industries and encouraging small scale and cottage industries could go a long way in creating employment opportunities. One of the main reasons other nations do not consider India a safe investment destination is the cumbersome investment procedure. Hence, steps should be taken to make investment procedures simpler. Also, despite its vast tourism potential, India is not considered a safe tourist destination because of the crimes against foreigners and poor maintenance of our heritage sites. The new government will need to take steps to turn tourism into a profit-making industry. More importantly, a workforce that is devoid of medical benefits is less productive than a workforce that is healthy. Hence, substantial funds should be reserved for health care facilities of the people of the country. If the new government works in the right direction and keeps the welfare of the people in mind, there will be no need for any World Bank loans or a food security Bill to arrest hunger. And, with economic growth, jobs will be created automatically.
Veena Shenoy Thane
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