BJP releases election manifesto

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.