Development alone can solve all problems: PM

As Patel quota agitation threatens to snowball into a major issue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today asserted that development alone can solve all problems and expressed satisfaction that peace was restored in a short time in Gujarat after it was hit by violence days back.

He said the violence, which claimed at least ten lives, had caused pain to the entire nation.
"The recent incidents of violence in Gujarat have upset the entire nation. Whatever happens to the land of (Mahatma) Gandhi and Sardar Patel, the nation is shocked and pained first," he said in his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat'.

Modi said development alone can solve all problems and asked people to work in this direction.

"Peace, unity and brotherhood are the only correct way and we have to walk together on the path of development as only it is the solution of our problems," he said.

Modi, the former Chief Minister who ruled the state for 12 years, appreciated the people of Gujarat saying their cooperation helped in controlling the situation.

"In a very short time, my Gujarati brothers and sisters controlled the situation. They played an active role and did not let the situation worsen and peace was restored in the state," he said.

Earlier this week when violence broke out in Gujarat, Modi had appealed for calm and underlined that the government is committed to the welfare of all people. He had said all issues can be resolved peacefully through discussions.

"I appeal to all brothers and sisters of Gujarat that they should not resort to violence. The only 'Mantra' must be 'Shanti' (peace)," he had said in a statement against the backdrop of violence in his home state.

Asking everybody in the state to make effort to take Gujarat to new heights of development, the former Chief Minister had said, "Violence has never done good for anyone. All issues can be resolved peacefully through talks. ... Everybody should respect democratic values".