New Delhi: Finance Minister P Chidambaram today (May 24, 2004) said the Indian economy is in a resilient mode and his priority would be to consolidate the growth momentum with special emphasis on agriculture, manufacturing and employment.

"Economy is in a resilient mode and I am confident about consolidation of the growth momentum with emphasis on agriculture, manufacturing and employment," Chidambaram said at his first press conference after taking charge of his Ministry.

Stressing that his endeavour would be to promote investment, he said it was the key to job growth and income.

"Agriculture, manufacturing and our commitment to boost employment will require a massive investment, both public and private," he said.

He said Government's commitment to fiscal responsibility will be honoured.

"We will find money for public investment...We are bound by the Fiscal Responsibility Bill. It provides a roadmap that helps in achieving our objectives," he said.

"I believe policies adopted since 1991 have brought strength and benefitted the economy," he said.