Amethi, Jan 16 (PTI): Union Minister Smriti Irani today took on Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi on his home turf, saying Amethi has been left "far behind" in development as it was limited to "a few people".

"Amethi has been left far behind in terms of development, which is limited to a few people. Farmers are distraught... I am here to solve their problems," Ms Irani said while addressing a meeting at SPN Inter College in Tiloi area of the district.

Highlighting Pradhan Mantri Kisan Bima Yojna, Ms Irani said that the Centre has approved Kisan Vihaan Kendra in Amethi and if the state government provide land it would be started soon.

She also announced that an ambulance service would be launched in the district.

THe HRD Minister said that BJP was working on war footing to strengthen its organisation at village level.

Ms Irani promised proper development of Amethi and specially mentioned village Baraulia which has been adopted by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar for its development.

The strategy for its development would be decided soon, she added.

She also participated in the 'khichri Bhoj' by BJP activists on the premises of the inter college and assured farmers that she would talk to district magistrate of Amethi regarding their problems including non-payment (pending) of compensations.

Earlier, on the first day of her two-day visit, the minister was welcomed by BJP activists and others at different places including Chilauli, Inhauna, Hajariganj and Raja fattepur areas.

Amethi and Rae Bareli - the traditional Gandhi bastions - had also been the only seats the Congress won during 2014 Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh. Ms Irani had contested unsuccessfully against Mr Gandhi but had managed to secure nearly 3 lakh votes.

Four assembly segments (Amethi, Gauriganj, Tiloi and Jagdishpur) under Amethi parliamentary constituency are in Amethi district and another Salon is in Rae Bareli.