Andalib Akhter/

prez MukherjeeThe President of India Pranab Mukherjee today asked all those holding constitutional positions to maintain the sanctity of constitution. “It is primarily due to our steadfast adherence to the principles enshrined in our Constitution. It is an enduring document that reflects our aspirations and the avenues to achieve them, in an inclusive manner. It is incumbent on us all who hold constitutional positions to maintain the sanctity of this sacred text”, stressed president Mukherjee in his speech after opening the 47th Conference of Governors at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

He said that constitution is an enduring document that reflects aspirations and the avenues to achieve them, in an inclusive manner.

The President also said that Union government’s schemes have to run in close partnership with state governments for their successful implementation.

Mr Mukherjee said, scemes like Make-in-India, Start-up India, Smart City Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission have to be implemented in cooperation with state governments. He said as the constitutional heads of their respective states, Governors can play an inspirational role to ensure their active cooperation.

The President said states having international borders were affected by terrorist attacks that had clear external linkages.

Mr Mukherjee also stressed that efforts need to be done at resolving all outstanding international issues through peaceful dialogue and negotiations.

The President also said that 2015 was a difficult year as the country faced challenges from the global economic slowdown, climatic changes, and internal and external security. He said India is suffering the worst effects of drought with two consecutive deficient monsoons and farmers’ distress has to be addressed on a war-footing.

Mr Mukherjee said the newly-launched Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana aims at providing effective risk cover to farmers using technology.

He also asked to keep disaster management system in a state of preparedness to minimise damage.

In the Conference, the President said Governors can play a persuasive role in improving quality of education in the country.