In the backdrop of increasing ceasefire violations along the borders, President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said India must be ready to take all steps necessary to ensure both internal and external security, and protect territorial integrity of our nation.
The President was addressing the Governors of all States and Union Territories through video-conferencing in Rashtrapati Bhavan. Pointing out that security of the territories along international borders remains a matter of concern, the President said while India is committed to peace and non-violence, we cannot afford the luxury of being complacent on our borders.
“Repeated violations of the ceasefire on the Line of Control and recent incidents of incursions off our coastal line are a matter of serious concern,” he said.
General elections
Reflecting on the year gone by, he said after three decades, the General Elections 2014 provided a stable government at the Centre with a clear majority for a single party, with a mandate for good governance. “To realise the aspirations of our countrymen and guide India’s rightful ascent in the comity of nations, both the Central and the State Governments have to collectively share the responsibility,” he pointed out.
The President reminded the Governors that as first citizens of their States they have the responsibility to play an active part in the development of Fifth and Sixth Scheduled Areas.
Left wing extremism
“The scourge of Left Wing Extremism should be tackled through the twin-pronged strategy of development and deterrence,” he said.
He called upon Governors to pay special attention to educational institutions to ensure that they provide quality education and inculcate the core civilisational values of patriotism, compassion, honesty, tolerance, performance of duty and respect for women.
