I have a task to do, can't think of retiring now: PM

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday said Naxalism remains the biggest internal security challenge and it is imperative to control Left-wing extremism for the country's growth.

His government has not underestimated the problem of Naxalism, Singh said at a national press conference here to mark the completion of one year of UPA-II in office.

"I have been saying for the last three years that Naxalism remains the biggest internal security challenge facing our country," he said.

Asked if his government had underestimated the Naxals, he said, "We have not underestimated the problem of Naxalism."

He said there was no difference of opinion between the Centre and the states on the issue.

Differences between 2G, 3G prices

The PM said although there is a huge gap in the prices of spectrum for 2G and 3G services, the whole issue needs to be seen in proper perspective.

The pricing for 2G spectrum was based on policies that were already in place and had approvals of telecom regulator TRAI, he said at a national press conference to mark UPA-II's one year in office, quoting Telecom Minister A Raja as having told him.

Asked about Raja facing allegations of corruption in sale of 2G spectrum, Singh said that since investigations were on in the case he would not like to offer his opinion on the issue.

Offer to Rahul to join Cabinet

Observing that Rahul Gandhi was "very qualified" to hold a post in the Union Cabinet, Singh said the young Congress MP has always been reluctant to join his ministry and renewed his offer to him to join the UPA Government.

Singh also said he was ready to make place for "anybody" whom the Congress party decides when asked by a newsman at a press conference whether he was ready to make way for 39-year-old Rahul during his current tenure.

He added he consults Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on number of issues and she is happy to advise him.

Affirmative action in pvt sector

Singh says the government is working towards creating an atmosphere where trade and industry come forward to reserve jobs for the socially underprivileged - a practice in vogue in the public sector.

Reserving jobs in private sector or affirmative action was part of the national Common Minimum Programme of UPA-I and it had initiated a national dialogue with political parties and industry to see how this can be implemented.

"To take forward the affirmative action, we need to create an atmosphere so that trade and industry participants help us on this issue. We are working hard towards that and we acknowledge it needs to be taken forward fast," he said replying to a question on progress on affirmative action.

Afzal Guru hanging issue

Singh said the "law of the land" should be allowed to take its course in dealing with the issue of Parliament attack death row convict Afzal Guru.

"There is law of the land. They should be allowed to have their course," Singh said replying to a question over when the death sentence awarded to Guru would be carried out.

On whether the delay will send a message that India is a soft state in dealing with terrorism, he said it is a perception which can vary among individuals.