New Delhi, Jul 24(UNI) Congress president Sonia Gandhi and party leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday paid tribute to late Prime Minister P V Narasimha Rao on the occasion of his birth centenary and said that the economic reforms process initiated by his government played a pivotal role in economic transformation of the country.

In a message on the occasion of inauguration of yearlong celebration by the Telangana Pradesh Congress committee to commemorate the birth centenary of the late Prime Minister , Ms Gandhi said, 'through his bold leadership, our country was able to overcome many challenges successfully. Union budget of July 24, 1991 paved the way for economic transformation of the country. '

Congratulating the Telangana PCC for the yearlong birth centenary celebrations of P V Narasimha Rao,she said, 'Mr P V Narasimha Rao was a very respected national and international figure. The Congress party takes pride in his many accomplishments and contributions. '

In a message on the occasion, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said Mr P V. Narasimha Rao, along with the Finance Minister in his government, Dr. Manmohan Singh played a pivotal role in ushering in the era of liberalisation.

'July 24" marks the twenty ninth anniversary of the 1991 budget. On this day, India embarked on a bold new path of economic transformation. Mr P.V. Narasimha Rao and Dr. Manmohan Singh played a pivotal role in ushering in the era of liberalisation,'Rahul said .

Describing the late Prime Minister P V Narasimha Rao as a man whose contribution continues to shape modern India,Rahul Gandhi said, 'from joining the Congress party in his teenage years to becoming the PM of the largest democracy. His remarkable political journey reflected his grit and determination.

I hope this event will revive interest among our youth to learn about India's growth story and the remarkable individuals who made this possible.'

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