COUNTRY HAS TO BE PREPARED FOR LESS THAN NORMAL MONSOON ; PREZ

Country has to be prepared for less than normal monsoon: Prez

In her address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day, President Pratibha Devi Singh Patil said that the country has to be prepared to face the situation arising out of poor monsoon and asked the citizens to cooperate with the govt in handling the swine flu situation. The President said the flagship programmes of the government were comprehensive ranging from health to education, employment to expanding social and economic infrastructure. Speaking on terrorism President said it was the very antithesis of peaceful co-existence. President Pratibha Patil today favoured reform of governance for effective delivery of public services for which administrators must be responsive to the needs of the people. Cautioning against corruption in flagship welfare programmes, President Pratibha Patil today favoured reform of governance for effective delivery of public services for which administrators must be responsive to the needs of the people. Patil said the expectations of the people were rising as they were becoming more aware of their rights and seek better opportunities. "Facilities, amenities and services meant for them whether they are living in rural or urban areas can be delivered smoothly only if there is an effective governance system that is less cumbersome but more transparent and accountable". "There is outrage when money meant for welfare schemes is pilfered out by corrupt practices," she said. Patil said the implementation of welfare schemes will have to be at optimal levels for an impact to be made on the lives of the people. Hence, the emphasis on reform of governance for effective delivery of public services is critical to change the lives of the people. "The administrators must be responsive to the needs of the people. Their work is a public service commitment, dedication and honesty should be the hallmarks of their work," she said. The President said this year the monsoon has been less than normal impacting agriculture and availability of water. The government is taking all possible steps to deal with it. Patil said the government is also taking necessary measures to handle the H1N1 influenza. Citizens have to come forward to contribute to government's efforts in these areas and in other development initiatives through public-private partnerships, NGOs, community groups or Self Help Groups. "An enlightened citizenry conscious of its civic duties and social responsibilities, maintaining discipline, following good habits particularly about hygiene and cleanliness, respectful towards nature's bounty and sensitive to environmental concerns is the greatest asset of a nation," she said.