Governor H R Bhardwaj on Sunday said that there is a visible tide of pubic resentment in the country against corruption, lack of probity in public life and failure to deliver public services, especially to the deprived sections.
In his Republic Day address at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground here, the Governor said “well functioning public services to make a big difference to people’s lives is the need of the hour to revive and reinforce faith of the people in democratic governance”.
After unfurling the national flag, Mr Bhardwaj inspected the guard of honour from an open jeep. He received salute from the armed forces, police, National Cadet Corps, Scouts and Guides, and hundreds of schoolchildren.
In an eight page address, he said India has emerged as a powerful economy over the last three decades by quickened growth. The country continues to be one of the fastest growing economies in the world. India was considered one of the emerging economic giants. While the economic development was impressive, was the achievement sustainable and helping Indians, he asked.
Noting that the country’s commitment to secularism cannot be compromised at any cost, he said “no culture can live if it attempts to be exclusive.”
In the 15 minute address, the Governor said there has been significant progress in the State by the bold initiatives of the governments, enlightened and public spirited groups, entrepreneurs and other NGOs. The government was treading the path in ensuring food security to the people of the State.
“I am particularly pleased that efforts in the health sector have brought dividends in bringing down infant mortality in the State. The State should resolutely march ahead in mitigating malnutrition among hapless children,” Mr Bhardwaj said.
Implementation of drinking water schemes especially in villages suffering from fluoride and arsenic diseases and push given by government for effective implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme by ensuring electronic transfer of wages to workers at a time when some parts of the state was drought-hit was commendable, he said.
The governor said the national recognition accorded to Sakala was a notable achievement.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Minister for Transport Ramalinga Reddy, MLA N A Harris, Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike Commissioner M Lakshminarayana, Bangalore City Police Commissioner Raghavendra Auradkar and other dignitaries attended the two-hour programme.
