Manmohan likely to make a statement on reforms on Friday

Against the backdrop of widespread uproar over decision on FDI, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is likely to explain to the nation tomorrow the reason behind the step and the benefits it would entail. The Prime Minister's explanation could be in the form of a written message or a televised address, sources said.

Singh is expected to spell out the reasons that prompted the government to allow FDI in multi-brand retail.

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He is likely to cite the difficult times facing the economy and emphasise that the step was aimed at pushing economic growth and generating employment.

The thrust of the Prime Minister's message is expected to be that the step was taken in national interest.

After the Cabinet decision on September 14, Singh had said the step was intended to "bolster economic growth and make India a more attractive destination" for foreign investment.

"I believe that these steps will help strengthen our growth process and generate employment in these difficult times," he had said and sought support of "all segments of public opinion" for this.

The decision to go ahead with FDI in multi-brand retail has evoked angry reactions from Trinamool Congress which is going to quit the UPA government on Friday.

UPA's outside allies like Samajwadi Party and JD-S as well as opposition parties are also agitated over the decision and organised nationwide agitations on Thursday.