"Somebody had said how only 15 paisa of the one rupee sent from the Centre reached the intended beneficiaries. The job of a leader isn't just to diagnose the disease but to treat it"

"We will naturally pursue our goals on the strength of our own resources, skills and enterprise. But, we know that we will be more successful when we do this in partnership with the world."

"Our vision and commitment is towards the country's progress, its place in the world and the happiness of its people."

"I come bearing an olive branch in one hand, and the freedom fighter's gun in the other. Do not let the olive branch fall from my hand."

"Nothing amuses me more than the easy manner with which everybody settles the abundance of those who have a great deal less than themselves."

"I have learnt how to live, how to be in the world and of the world, and not just to stand aside and watch."