Stating that the changes that came about in the last ten years were because of the efforts made by the Congress-led government, he said "The changes have led to India becoming a fast emerging economy. If this continues India within a short time will be a fast rising nation in the world".
"Without economic development, eradication of poverty is not possible. If there is no development youth will not get employment opportunities and common people will be deprived of progress," he said.
Singh spoke about two lakh km village roads being built and construction of infrastructure such as railway network expansion, airport development, metro railway, besides stress being given on welfare of education and health care facilities.
"We have been able to have good relations with many countries and India's position from the diplomatic point of view is commendable," Singh said.
"I am lucky that you all have selected me as the Prime Minister. Before coming into politics I was for 40 years in many posts where I served with commitment. Where ever I am I work for the people of India," he said.
Speaking about changes in Assam, which he represented in the Rajya Sabha for the last 23 years, and the North East region, the Prime Minister said there was development of infrastructure during the last ten years. "The Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology, Jorhat Medical College Hospital, a super speciality hospital, National Institute of Design in Jorhat constituency have come up during the tenure of the Congress government here," Singh said.
"Prior to Independence the tea community was with the Congress. Now also we are doing a lot for them and assure to continue working for their welfare and progress," he promised.
Stating that India was declared a polio-free country by the WHO, the Prime Minister said the UPA government was giving special attention to children's health care and their education - from the primary to the higher education level.
