Atal Bihari Vajpayee's 100th birth anniversary: What's The Significance of Good Governance Day on December 25
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): December 25 is observed as Good Governance Day in India, marking the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This milestone holds great significance as the nation reflects on Vajpayee’s enduring legacy of transparency, efficiency, and people-centric governance, which has left an indelible impact on India’s development journey.
The History of Good Governance Day
Good Governance Day was first introduced by the Narendra Modi-led government in 2014 to promote awareness about the importance of accountability in government and the delivery of efficient public services. The day is celebrated annually with initiatives and events aimed at fostering responsible governance.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee: A Leader, Poet, and Visionary
Born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a three-time Prime Minister of India, serving briefly in 1996, for 13 months during 1998-1999, and a full term from 1999 to 2004.
Renowned for his oratory skills and poetic flair, Vajpayee became the first leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to hold the Prime Minister’s office. He was conferred the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 2015.
His tenure was marked by transformative initiatives, including the Kisan Credit Card, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, and the National Rural Health Program, which laid the groundwork for significant advancements in rural development and education.
Centenary Celebrations and Key Initiatives in 2024
To commemorate Vajpayee’s centenary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh on December 25 to inaugurate various development projects.
Highlights of the Celebrations:
1. Ken-Betwa River Linking Project
>India’s first interlinking of rivers under the National Perspective Plan.
>Aims to improve irrigation across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, benefiting thousands of farmers.
2. Commemorative Stamp and Coin
>A special stamp and coin will be issued to honor Vajpayee’s memory.
3. Atal Gram Sushasan Buildings
>The foundation stone for 1,153 buildings will be laid to support Gram Panchayats in Madhya Pradesh.
4. Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project
>Launch of a renewable energy project in Khandwa, aligning with India’s commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
Sushasan Saptah: Good Governance Week
As part of the centenary celebrations, the government is organizing Sushasan Saptah (Good Governance Week) from December 19-25. The week-long event focuses on initiatives to enhance governance efficiency and service delivery.
A Lasting Legacy
Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s legacy as a statesman and visionary continues to shape India’s governance model, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and progress. The 100th-anniversary celebrations are a tribute to his enduring contributions to the nation.
