Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Thursday highlighted the state government's land reform policies and its decision to allow FDI in multi-brand retail in a bid to entice foreign investors.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum, Mr. Hooda claimed that his government's recent land pooling scheme would make sure that farmers and land owners receive the maximum benefit along with a fair share in the development projects.

Mr. Hooda said that his government had always been responsive to the requirements and aspirations of the farmers. He added, "It is with this key priority in view that we notified our landmark Rehabilitation & Resettlement Policy."

He also declared that while many states were opposing FDI in multi-brand retail sector, the Haryana government had approved the same. He claimed that allowing FDI in retail would benefit consumers, entrepreneurs and farmers, as well as help in enhancing the rural infrastructure through the construction of warehouses, cold chains and food processing centres.

According to figures released by Assocham, 87 per cent of the total investments made in Haryana are by the private sector. In the past seven years, Haryana recorded average annual growth rate of 9.4 per cent and contributed nearly 3.4 per cent to the country's gross domestic product.

Mr. Hooda also urged the industry to fulfill its social responsibilities.