PM gives himself 6/10, says not satisfied

The PM said at the CWC meeting that running a coalition was a new experience for the Congress. ‘‘I am confident that under Soniaji’s wise and mature leadership our party will regain its full glory and once again take this country forward,’’ he said. Giving an overview of his achievements, Singh said he had identified seven key areas, from agriculture and education to infrastructure and urban renewal, for accelerating development.

‘‘A journalist recently asked me what score I will give myself and our Government and I said 6/10. For some this may seem a reasonable mark to get. But I have never satisfied with a 60 pc,’’ the PM said. ‘‘I do sincerely believe we can do better. In the coming year, that will be our endeavour.’’

The CWC resolution congratulated UPA partners and Left parties and appreciated ‘‘their contribution and co-operation’’. The meeting also congratulated Sonia and the PM ‘‘for their untiring efforts to ensure the cohesive functioning of the alliance’’. The meeting, after recalling Sonia’s ‘‘unique act of self-abnegation of power’’, acknowledged Singh’s ‘‘quiet dignity and qualities of head and heart’’.

According to AICC general secretary Ambika Soni, the Congress president reposed her confidence in Singh’s ability to lead the coalition and implement the national common minimum programme (NCMP). Singh reciprocated by praising Sonia’s ‘‘mature, humane and forward-looking leadership’’.

The CWC endorsed the detoxification of the educational system and lauded peace initatives in J-K and the North-East, as well as the launch of the food-for-work scheme in 150 districts.

Deliberations were confined to the review of the UPA Government’s work, Soni said, adding that there were no discussions on the recent Assembly elections in Bihar and Jharkhand.

Sonia told senior colleagues that party workers had high expectations from them, now that they are in power, and asked ministers to meet party workers when they go on tours, Soni said. When some CMs started listing their achievements, Sonia checked them, saying she would soon convene a meeting of chief ministers to review their performance vis-a-vis their poll manifestos.

About two dozen of the 60-odd leaders present spoke at the meeting. Sources said Uttaranchal CM N.D. Tiwari suggested that the Congress establish Mahatma Gandhi Shishu Mandirs on the pattern of Saraswati Shishu Mandirs, to counter the Sangh Parivar, while Himachal Pradesh CM Virbhadra Singh said there is a need for a greater dedication among party members. The chief ministers of Punjab, Haryana and Assam did not show up.

AICC general secretary Satyavrat Chaturvedi demanded a special package for the weavers of Uttar Pradesh and Wasim Ahmed called for reservations to Dalits in the private sector.

The formalities for re-anointing Sonia as Congress president will get underway from May 25, when nominations for the post begin. Ambika Soni announced the poll schedule and said nominations will close on May 27.