President asks governors to share success stories

New Delhi, Oct 13 (IANS) President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday said that states and governors should share information about their successful programmes with their counterparts.

"Deliberations on both achievements and problems between states will give a new dimension to cooperative federalism," he said at the 48th Conference of Governors here.

"India will emerge as a developed nation only when every state develops," a government release quoted Kovind as saying.

He expressed confidence that governors and lieutenant governors would continue to make important contributions for giving new direction to development in their respective states.

The President said that governors could provide direction to the younger generation and play an important role in shaping the future of the country by constantly engaging with students and teachers.

"They can inspire universities in their states to develop as innovation centres. The role of the governors becomes even more important in ensuring education and development in tribal areas," he said.

Kovind also said that useful experiences were shared in the conference about issues pertaining to cleanliness, environment, conservation of energy and cutting down of wasteful expenditure.

He said many Raj Bhavans had been accorded the status of heritage building.

The President urged inclusion of special features of "green buildings" and "smart buildings" while keeping the heritage status of Raj Bhavans intact.

Speaking at the same conference, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said governors should act as catalysts and facilitators in the process of change.

"The ultimate aim is to serve common citizens and ensure that the benefits of development reach the people," he said.