Only states with separate municipal cadre eligible to benefit: Kamal Nath

He said there would be a huge focus on urban areas in future,particularly the municipalities “since it is the municipalities and not the metros from where most of the 70 per cent of country’s GDP will be coming in future.” Observing that there is huge infrastructure deficit in urban areas,Nath said,“It is imperative to have a good implementation setup in cities.”

On Uttar Pradesh elections,he said he doesn’t foresee chance of a Presidential rule. “It’s the last resort. I don’t think such a situation will arise there.” About Rahul Gandhi taking the centrestage of power,Nath said,“Party leaders and workers want it to happen. It will be his call.”

To a specific question about many corrupt babus getting caught with huge properties in Madhya Pradesh,Nath said,“MP has become a big centre of corruption in the country. Babus can’t be doing it without the connivance of rulers who must also be caught.”

Asked whether the Congress would act against Kripashankar Singh,Nath said,“Congress has never tried to sweep corruption under the carpet. The courts have directed a probe against him since there could be some evidence. There is no question of giving protection to him. The Congress will certainly act in the matter.”