New Delhi, Mar 12 (ANI): The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Christine Lagarde, citing India as an example, on Saturday said that structural reforms needed to be addressed by Asia. Speaking at the 'Advancing Asia Conference' in New Delhi, Lagarde said India needs to enhance the efficiency of product markets, encourage private investments, improve infrastructure, bank operations and balance sheets. The IMF chief said that Asia's income equality has worsened since 1990, adding that nearly two-thirds of the world's poor can be found living in the region. She also called for increased empowerment of women. Lagarde described these challenges before Asia as daunting, but achievable. She praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Aadhar', 'Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna' and 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' schemes, stating these would help India emrge as a bright and shining star. With the promise of more reforms, Lagarde said the IMF would partner India to help it achieve economic sustenance.
