This day is observed to create awareness among the masses, especially among the young generation, about the accountability of government and administration. It promotes citizen-centric as well as efficient and transparent governance to improve service delivery.
This year, India is observing the 100th birthday anniversary of Vajpayee.
History and Significance
Atal Bihari Vajpayee was born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior in present-day Madhya Pradesh. He went on to serve as the Prime Minister of India on three occasions — first in 1996 for a term of 13 days, followed by a 13-month term between 1998 and 1999, and later a full term of five years between 1999 to 2004.
Vajpayee, known for his famous poetry and writings, emerged as the first leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to become the Prime Minister.
In honour of the BJP stalwart, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government in 2014 announced its decision to mark Vajpayee’s birthday (December 25) as the ‘Good Governance Day’ in India.
Vajpayee was even honoured with Bharat Ratna, the country’s highest civilian honour, in 2015.
During his tenure, he worked towards several initiatives demonstrating good governance that went on to play a major role in the transformational journey of the Indian economy.
Among some of these initiatives were the Kisan Credit Card, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan as well as the National Rural Health Programme.
As part of the celebrations, the central government also carries out Sushasan Saptah (Good Governance Week) every year from December 19-25.
Plans for 2024
To mark the 100th birth anniversary of Vajpayee, PM Modi is scheduled to visit Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday, December 25. He will be inaugurating and laying the foundation stone of several development projects in Khajuraho.
As per a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office, PM Modi is set to lay the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa river linking national project, which will be the maiden interlinking of rivers project in India under the national perspective plan.
It will provide irrigation facilities to several districts of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, benefitting the farmer families.
Also, PM Modi will be releasing a commemorative stamp and coin marking Vajpayee’s birth anniversary. He will lay the foundation stone of 1,153 Atal Gram Sushasan buildings, which will play a significant role in the practical conduct of work and responsibilities of the Gram Panchayats, the statement said.
Moreover, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project of Madhya Pradesh’s Khandwa district — aimed at reducing carbon emissions and contributing to the Centre’s mission of net zero carbon emission by 2070.
