More steps to rein in inflation: FM

Finance Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday hinted at more steps to control inflation, an issue which cost the Congress dearly in polls in two states, saying government will strive for high and inclusive economic growth.

The outlook on economy remains positive and the government would strive to sustain high growth without stoking inflation, he told reporters after tabling the Economic Survey for 2006-07 in Parliament.

Chidambaram, who will present the Budget for 2007-08 on Wednesday, said, "The government would continue to

take steps to curb inflation... we share the concern (of common man) on the price rise. Priority areas include how to maintain and manage high economic growth... fiscal prudence and high investment remain a priority", he said.

Steps would also be taken to achieve inclusive growth, Chidambaram said. The Congress today suffered setbacks in assembly polls in Punjab and Uttarakhand, where it was in power.

Economic Survey 2006-07: Complete Coverage