A strong, decisive govt can make Gurugram Millennium City in true sense: Rao Inderjit

Rao Inderjit Singh, who is seeking his fifth term as a member of parliament (MP), has been a politician for 45 years. Not only has he had a successful stint as an MP, but he has also proved his credentials by being a member in Haryana Vidhan Sabha. Son of Rao Birender Singh who was the second Chief Minister of the state, their family have fought over 20 elections in the South Haryana regions of Gurugram and Mahendargarh. Most of it has been in winning the cause. Despite a stellar political record, the electorate of Gurugram has not shied away from expressing their angst when required. Despite being a doyen in the politics of Gurugram, Rao Birender Singh lost general elections in 1977, 1991 and 1996. Even Rao Inderjit tasted failure from Gurugram in the general elections of 1998. Being a seasoned politician, Rao Inderjit understands this situation. Speaking to Piyush Ohrie of Millennium Post, Rao Inderjit emphasised the importance of a strong government in the Centre, his works for the development for Gurugram and also the concerns for fewer people voting for him in Mewat. Excerpts

You are an incumbent MP. You have also had an experience for representing Gurugram Lok Sabha constituency in the parliament for a long. How are you convincing the electorate to vote for you again?

These elections are extremely significant for our country. The electorate understands that a strong and decisive government is the need of the hour. There was a time India's share in world's GDP used to be 27 per cent, today it is just seven per cent. Due to our weak governance systems in the past, the country has been invaded many times and our resources have been looted. For a long time, we were perceived as weak and a country which cannot defend itself. A major achievement of the Modi led government has been that it has displayed to the international community that it can take bold decisions on economy and national security within a democratic framework.

When we talk about Gurugram, Rs 1,300 crore have been sanctioned for setting up of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rewari. There has been a vast improvement in road infrastructure and connectivity, urban governance has given a fillip by setting up of Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA). To make sure that the homebuyers are not harassed by the builder's lobby we have also ensured the formation of Haryana real estate regulation act (HRERA).

A strong and decisive government will ensure that Gurugram becomes Millennium city in true sense.

There has been criticism that public healthcare and educational systems have not improved but deteriorated in Gurugram. What do you think?

To begin with, the sanctioning of funds for AIIMS has already been done in the union budget. There is a medical university which is coming up in Gurugram. The state government has already started the process of how the Civil Hospital in Gurugram will be revamped. In my tenure, there was Indira Gandhi University that was opened in Mirpur. The process of Gurugram University in Kakrola functioning at the earliest is also being undertaken by the state government.

Are you concerned about the levels of air pollution in Gurugram?

Yes, I am concerned about the poor air quality levels in Gurugram and we are taking steps to improve the situation. We have improved the road infrastructure at NH-8 and this has resulted in less traffic congestion at the busy route. After years of delay, the Kundali-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) expressway is finally open. The work for Sohna road elevated highway project has already started. We have ensured that the Metro line is extended towards the old city.

How will you tackle the challenge of falling groundwater levels in areas in and around Gurugram?

We will protect the water bodies, the natural nullahs and the Aravalli catchment aquifers to reduce flooding and increase the groundwater recharge in Gurugram and South Haryana. The Pond Authority that has been set up is an important step in this regard.

There are large numbers of ex-defence personnel who are attending your public meetings. What are your plans for their welfare?

The Modi government ensured that the long pending demand of one rank one pension was implemented. Today the government is spending Rs 12,500 crore annually for the welfare of our ex-defence personnel. Our workers and councillors are in constant touch with the retired Army personnel and we make sure that their needs are taken care of.

Are you worried about the situation of you getting fewer votes in Mewat?

In a democracy, if a public representative gets a lot of respect and affection from the electorate, there are going to be certain voters who may not be very happy with you. I have carried out my duties with integrity and honesty and I have spoken about my works to the voters in Mewat.