New Delhi, Sep 30 (PTI) Optimistic of a 7-8 per cent growth this year after an impressive first quarter, Finance Minister P Chidambaram today pitched for further opening of the economy and higher investments in agriculture.

Publication: PTI - The Press Trust of India Ltd.

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He also said inflation was expected to be within "tolerable limits" even though there would be some negative impact of hike in domestic fuel prices.

With low inflation and excess liquidity, he indicated that interest rates would also remain stable.

"By and large, we are happy with first quarter. But I think we can and we ought to do better...I am optimistic. We must ensure no sand is thrown into the wheels," Chidambaram said, enthused by the 8.1 per cent growth in the April-June quarter.

Asked if he expected more than 7 per cent growth this fiscal after a good...

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