New Delhi: The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the Conference of Governors at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. The two-day conference aims to address a wide range of issues pivotal in shaping center-state relations and promoting welfare schemes for the common people.
In her opening remarks, President Murmu emphasized that the conference’s agenda included carefully chosen topics crucial for achieving national goals. She expressed confidence that the deliberations would be enriching for all participants and aid them in their roles.
The inaugural session was also addressed by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Vice President Dhankhar highlighted the Governors’ constitutional responsibility to raise awareness about social welfare schemes and the significant development of the past decade.
Prime Minister Modi urged the Governors to act as effective bridges between the Centre and the States, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the underprivileged. He noted the crucial role Governors play within the constitutional framework, particularly in tribal areas.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah outlined the discussions for the conference and encouraged Governors to visit Vibrant Villages and Aspirational Districts to boost local confidence and development efforts.
President Murmu declared the conference open by noting the implementation of three new criminal justice laws, signaling a new era for the justice system in India. She stressed the importance of better coordination between central agencies and state governments for the smooth functioning of democracy.
Highlighting the value of quality higher education, the President underscored the need for Governors to support the National Education Policy, which aims to improve the accreditation and assessment system of educational institutions. She also urged Governors to focus on inclusive development for tribal populations and to support the ‘MY Bharat’ campaign for youth development.
The President praised the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ campaign for fostering unity among different states and UTs and called on Governors to strengthen this spirit of unity. She also encouraged Governors to combat climate change through initiatives like the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and to promote natural farming to enhance soil fertility and farmers’ income.
President Murmu expressed confidence that the Governors would continue to serve and promote the welfare of the people, fulfilling their constitutional oath.
The conference includes breakaway sessions where sub-groups of Governors, along with Union Ministers and ministry officials, will deliberate on each agenda item. Their observations and suggestions will be presented during the concluding session tomorrow, August 3, 2024.