'Jan Dhan scheme greatest inclusive programme in India so far'

Union Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad today described the Prime Minister's Jan Dhan scheme as the "greatest inclusive programme" in the country to have been launched so far.

In his address at the Tamil Nadu launch of the programme, Prasad said it was being implemented in lines with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resolve to work for the poor and ensure equitable development.

"This is the greatest inclusive programme in the country so far. He (Modi) had said that his government will work for the poor and ensure equitable development," he said.

Prasad appealed to postal employees and public sector BSNL staff, besides advocates, to promote and ensure that each household received this 'great game-changing initiative.'

He also praised Modi's elevation to the top post of the country, saying he had worked his way from 'literally selling tea' in his childhood days, but not due to any 'family connections but sheer hard work.'

Governor K Rosaiah, who launched the initiative in Tamil Nadu by giving away bank kits to select beneficiaries, lauded Modi's 'farsighted vision' which he said had 'set the wheels in motion for improving the status of the poor.'

"It is nice that the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana aims to facilitate the poorest citizens of our country to have a bank account with a debit card facility covering an insurance of Rs one lakh in case of crisis and risks in life. This would not only accord safe and security to them but also to the entire family," he said.

He said banks had been playing a pivotal role in enriching the economic and social life of the nation and said they should be instrument of economic changes to maximize social good.

He said the Prime Minster had given a 'great social responsibility to the banking sector' and asked them to be customer friendly, informative, provide assistance and help to the customers.

"A kind word and assistance will help to bridge the economic gap and ensure the poorest citizens of our nation and his family a new lease of life. Make this scheme a great success," he urged the bankers.

Tamil Nadu Finance Minister O Panneerselvam said that the Jayalalithaa government in the state welcomed today's initiative, launched by Modi in Delhi and simultaneously by others in many cities in the country.

He assured cooperation and assistance from the state government towards the successful implementation of the programme.

It would particularly help the upliftment of economically poor, he added.