Governors are 'agents of change', says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday referred to state Governors as 'agents of change', and said their catalysing influence can contribute significantly to the development of states.

Addressing the concluding session of the Conference of Governors at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Prime Minister outlined the broad thrust of the government's policies, stating that the Centre aims at 'all-round' economic growth. He further stated that policies have been phased away from the 'one-size-fits-all' model, and is working towards cooperative, competitive federalism via the NITI Aayog.

Prime Minister Modi further stated that the expanding footprint of terrorist organisations in Pakistan and their link with terror activities in India is a major security challenge, also pointing towards the continuing incidents of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control by the Islamic Republic.

Stating that the government has adopted a multi-pronged approach to counter infiltration from across the border, the Prime Minister urged states facing the problem of left wing extremism to adopt a coordinated approach to tackle the problem.

The Prime Minister also stressed upon the need for ending the infrastructure deficit in the states in the North-East in order to realise the potential of the region. He also spoke about tribal development, and stressed on the need for providing stable employment to tribals, eliminating infrastructure gaps, and improving education, human development, and lifestyle changes among the tribal communities.

Prime Minister Modi also highlighted recent governance initiatives, including the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, 'Digital India', 'Make in India', the elimination of outdated laws and so on.

He also called upon Governors, in their capacity as Chancellors of universities, to inspire the youth and their families to participate in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

The Prime Minister also talked about social issues such as drug abuse, declining sex ratio and food adulteration and asked Governors to contribute in the successful implementation of important central schemes.