Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu releases Telugu book on PVNR

The Vice-President paid rich tributes to the former Prime Minister and recalled the economic reforms initiated by him that helped accelerate the country's development. The country was facing a severe economic crisis and political uncertainty when Narasimha Rao took over as the Prime Minister, Mr. Naidu said, adding "PVR, however, exceeded the expectations of many political pundits and effectively steered the country through many challenges during his tenure."

PVR was an astute administrator and although one may not agree with some of his policies, some of the broader initiatives taken by him were in the larger interest of the country, Mr. Naidu said. He facilitated the entry of India into the World Trade Organisation, he added.

The Vice-President said Narasimha Rao had removed license raj, took up banking reforms, privatisation of electricity, telecom modernisation, and many measures to boost exports and attract foreign investment. He also launched reforms in the agriculture sector and removed restrictions on transportation of food grains.

Mr. Naidu recalled that the former Prime Minister also empowered local bodies through the 73rd and 74th Constitutional amendments. Describing PVR as a multi-faceted personality, he said the former PM was a great scholar, litterateur, and multi-linguist who did not get due recognition.

Lauding Krishna Rao for his book, he urged the youth to read such books. He said books and memorial lectures about great men and women were meant to inspire others.

Rajya Sabha MP K. Keshava Rao, the author of the book, Krishna Rao, and publisher Raghavendra Rao attended the book launch.