New Delhi, Mar 17: Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram on Monday said that the Central Government may provide subsidy to ensure that essential items are available to the poor and the vulnerable sections of society at affordable rates.

Referring to the soaring inflation rate, Chidambaram told Rajya Sabha members that the Central Government would take more steps to curb it.

He went no to say that some measures have already been taken to contain inflation and some more could be taken in the coming days.

Chidambaram also said that the government would take efforts to see that the price rise does not hamper industrial growth.

He emphasized that higher growth is essential for inclusive growth and reiterated the government's commitment to ensure that all sections of population are benefited by the high growth rate.

Commenting on fiscal deficit, Chidambaram said it has been brought to 3.1 per cent and is projected to come down further to 2.5 per cent during next fiscal.

The Finance Minister made it clear that the fiscal deficit has been kept low to adjust the anticipated and unanticipated expenditure, including the amount required for the loan waiver scheme and for the implementation of the recommendation of the Sixth Pay Commission. (ANI)