’12th Plan to slash poor-rich gap’

Kumar has been given the portfolio at a time when the Planning Commission is working on the ‘Approach’ document of the 12th Plan which would ultimately lead to formulation of the five-year period document.

Focus will be on improving “delivery” of government’s flagship schemes within the stipulated timefarme,he said.

“Planning assumes importance in the wake of globalisation of economy and need to make benefits of it reach all corners of the country and people,” he added.

Kumar,a Rajya Sabha member,was earlier Minister of State for Commerce and Industry.