Planning Commission member N K Singh on Wednesday said there was a need to continue with crucial economic reforms to sustain eight per cent GDP growth.

It was critical for the government to continue with reforms in power, labour and agriculture if the targets are to be sustained, Singh said on the sidelines of the Confederation of Indian Industry's Young Indians Summit, in New Delhi.

Singh favoured a change in the mindset for managing human resources, primary and secondary education besides the centres of excellence.

He pointed to several challenges -- including harnessing the energy of youth and integrating different regions into the mainstream India -- the country would face during the 21st century.

The plan panel member warned that the "shine" from eight per cent growth would wear off unless rural incomes rise and human resources are properly managed.

Inaugurating the summit, CII president Anand Mahindra said his orgainsation had initiated a programme to connect various segments of population.

He said it was necessary for various faces of India to talk and align goals.