Good Governance Day: A Tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Vision
Every year, December 25th marks Good Governance Day, or Sushasan Diwas, in India. This day is dedicated to remembering the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a leader whose legacy continues to inspire the nation. The day emphasizes the importance of accountability, transparency, and citizen-centric governance, which are essential for improving the quality of public services.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee: A Visionary Leader
Atal Bihari Vajpayee, born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, served as India’s Prime Minister three times. His leadership was marked by significant milestones, from his initial tenure in 1996 to his full term from 1999 to 2004. Vajpayee, also a gifted poet and writer, was the first leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to hold the Prime Minister’s office.
During his tenure, Vajpayee introduced transformative programs aimed at enhancing governance and addressing the needs of the people. Initiatives like the Kisan Credit Card, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, and the National Rural Health Programme were designed to improve the lives of citizens, especially those in rural areas. His leadership earned him the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 2015.
2024 Celebrations: Honoring Vajpayee’s Centenary
In 2024, India commemorates Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 100th birth anniversary with special celebrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Madhya Pradesh on December 25th, where he will inaugurate key projects in Khajuraho. Among the most significant is the Ken-Betwa river linking project, a pioneering initiative under India’s national perspective plan aimed at providing irrigation to farmers in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
Additionally, the Prime Minister will release a commemorative stamp and coin to honor Vajpayee’s legacy and lay the foundation for 1,153 Atal Gram Sushasan buildings, which will support local governance at the Gram Panchayat level. Another major development is the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project in Khandwa district, aligning with India’s sustainability goals and commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
Sushasan Saptah: Celebrating Governance
Good Governance Day is part of a week-long observance known as Sushasan Saptah, which runs from December 19 to 25. During this period, the central government organizes various activities to promote the principles of efficient and transparent governance. These efforts aim to raise awareness about the importance of good governance and encourage both citizens and officials to work towards a more accountable and responsive government.
Good Governance Day is more than just a tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It serves as a reminder of his vision for India’s governance—one that prioritizes the needs of the people and fosters transparency and accountability at all levels. Through these initiatives, the day continues to inspire positive changes in governance and the delivery of services across the nation.
