The 47th Conference of Governors concluded today (February 10, 2016) at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

In his concluding remarks, the President reiterated that all Governors have been charged with an onerous responsibility - to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution. It is, therefore, imperative that all their actions are within the framework of the Constitution and conform to the highest ideals enshrined in this living document.He said as holders of high offices they must not only be fair but also be seen to be fair.

The President said the Governors of eastern states, specially the North Eastern states, should become active participants of the Government’s ‘Act East’ policy. Connectivity of the North Eastern States must be improved by strengthening the road and rail network. There is need for a progressive policy for industrial investment and promotion in the hilly and mountainous states. The entire North-East and the Northern region of the country is highly vulnerable to seismic disturbances. The building codes and regulatory mechanisms for new construction have to be enforced strictly. It needs to be ensured that disaster management procedures are in place and regular drills are conducted.

The President said laudable initiatives taken by some Governors should be replicated in other states. As Chancellors/ Visitors of universities at the state level, Governors can play a proactive role in driving quality higher education. Governors could also examine the possibility of conducting In-residence programmes in Raj Bhavans on the lines of what is organized at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The President said strong monitoring, rigorous follow-up, and validation of progress are essential for the success of the Swachh Bharat Mission. Governors, as the live-link between the centre and the states, can catalyze initiatives. Governors may take up smart solutions in their Raj Bhavans which can serve as technology demonstrators. They may also ask the universities to make use of the Unnat Bharat Abhiyaan for developing smart villages. Governors can also sensitize states/ UTs about adopting a well-knit strategy to achieve the objectives of the Make-in-India programme.

Vice President Mohd. Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed the concluding session.

The two day Conference had as its agenda-(a)Security- Internal and External with special focus on terrorism and insurgency activities; (b) Creating jobs for youths: special focus on skill development for school dropouts; (c) Implementation of flagship programmes of the Government like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Housing for all by 2022 and Smart Cities; (d) Improving quality of Higher Education; (e) Giving impetus to "Make in India” programme and employability and (f) Act East Policy and development of North Eastern Region.

The Conference was attended by Twenty-three Governors and two Lt. Governors. Union Ministers for Home Affairs, External Affairs, Finance, Urban Development, Defence, Human Resource Development;Minister of State (I/C) of Ministry of Labour and Employment; Minister of State (I/C) Commerce and Industry; Minister of State (I/C) of Development of North Eastern Region; Minister of State (I/C) of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog and National Security Advisor addressed the gathering.

This release issued at 1910 hrs.