JOIN USPrime Minister Narendra Modi told governors that they could play a role of catalytic agents in the states for improving development process but “without themselves becoming a part of them.”
Addressing the concluding session of the 47th conference of governors called by President Pranab Mukherjee, Modi said all governors should think about some form of legacy which they would leave behind at the end of their terms, as their contribution to the states.
Modi’s remarks came against the backdrop of controversial role of some governors, some of whom were appointed by his government.
Modi said, “the governors occupy a unique high position, owing to their vast years of experience, and the prestigious nature of their post. They can hence work as catalytic agents in the States, speeding up and improving processes without themselves becoming a part of them.”
The prime minister reiterated his government’s stress on the importance of cooperative federalism, which he said must be implemented in letter and spirit.
He said the Centre and states must work together as Team India. He added that the spirit of cooperative federalism must also extend to cooperative, competitive federalism, with healthy competition for development among states.
Addressing the conference, President Pranab Mukherjee said holders of high offices must not only be fair but also be seen to be fair. He reminded Governors even as he asked them to act as catalysts for the success of initiatives like Swachh Bharat Mission and Make in India programme.
Mukherjee said laudable initiatives taken by some governors should be replicated in other states and that they should play a proactive role in driving quality higher education.
Taking forward his comments made in the opening session on Tuesday, he said governors have been charged with an onerous responsibility to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.
DH News Service