Highlights of the President’s Address to the Nation on the eve of the 63rd Independence Day

Current Affairs: Highlights of the President’s Address to the Nation on the eve of the 63rd Independence Day

* Emphasizes that democracy, inclusive economic development, social empowerment and the value system based on our heritage are the building blocks of our nationhood.

* The voice of every citizen is important and the principle of inclusiveness is integral to democracy.

* Each elected Member of Parliament has an obligation to work for the welfare of the people and the progress of the nation.

* Need to have an effective governance system which is more transparent and accountable.

* Implementation of the flagship programs of the Government will have to be at optimal levels for an impact to be made on the lives of the people.

* The administrators must be responsive to the needs of the people.

* Government is taking all possible steps to deal with less than normal monsoon situation this year.

* H1N1 influenza situation is being tackled by the Government with all the necessary measures in place.

* Citizens need to join hands with the Government in nation building and development initiatives.

* Even in the face of a global slowdown we must work to continue for our economic growth .

* Focus should be on strengthening our academic institutions and research facilities to achieve excellence.

* Weaker and the vulnerable sections of society need to be provided with the tools of empowerment - access to education, health and skill-building.

* Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Bill is a landmark legislation for achieving our goal of universal education.

* India should build its destiny on a culture of peace and harmony. There should be harmony between good traditions and progress.

* Terrorism must be defeated in the interest of the collective goal of humankind to build peaceful societies and a peaceful world.
* Communal Harmony holds the key to progress.