BJP releases election manifesto
- By Azhar Khan -
- Apr 07, 2014
NEW DELHI: Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), poised to take the most votes in a general election that started on Monday, said it would welcome foreign direct investment in sectors that would create jobs but not in multi-brand retail.
In its 52-page election manifesto, the BJP also said it would allow foreign direct investment wherever needed for job and asset creation – including in infrastructure and selected defence industries.
Following are highlights from the policy platform that the Hindu nationalist party hopes will secure a victory for its prime ministerial candidate, Narendra Modi:
Economic policy:
– BJP would not allow foreign direct investment in multi-brand retail.
– FDI would be allowed wherever needed for job and asset creation, including infrastructure.
– FDI would be allowed in selected defence industries.
– Would "rationalise and simplify" taxes.
– Would adopt a national General Sales Tax.
Social policy:
– To roll out low-cost housing programme to give every family a proper home within a decade.
– Will link welfare programmes like rural jobs schemes to "asset creation".
– Will review labour laws.
Infrastructure:
– Will build 100 new cities.
– Plans high-speed rail network.
Security:
– Would revise and update the nuclear doctrine.
Religious policy:
– Would explore possibilities of construction of Ram temple in Uttar Pradesh.