Patna: Stressing the need for collective responsibility in nation-building, Union agriculture, farmers’ welfare and rural development minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday said initiatives like ‘One Nation-One Election’, promotion of indigenous products and civic duty were essential pillars for making India a developed nation.
Call for Collective Duty
Addressing an intellectual conference in Patna, Chouhan called upon citizens across sectors in Bihar to actively contribute to the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’. “Farmers, teachers, employees, traders and every section of society must perform their duties with honesty and dedication. Only then can the dream of a developed India be realised,” he said.
Focus on Bihar’s Development
The Union minister assured that the Centre would continue to prioritise Bihar’s development, with a focus on strengthening rural infrastructure, improving farm incomes and ensuring welfare of the poor. He said efforts were underway to boost agricultural productivity, expand rural connectivity and enhance livelihood opportunities in the state.
Legal Reforms and Governance
Referring to upcoming legal reforms, the minister said new criminal laws would come into effect nationwide from July 1, aimed at ensuring faster and more accessible justice. He described the reforms as a major step towards strengthening governance and public trust in the justice system. Chouhan also credited the Narendra Modi-led govt for transforming India’s global image over the past 12 years. “Earlier, India was associated with corruption and scams. Today, the country is recognised for innovation, investment, economic growth and decisive leadership,” he said. He added that India had emerged as a strong voice globally and was capable of taking firm action against terrorism.
Vision of Vishwa-Guru
Invoking the ideals of Swami Vivekananda, he said India was steadily moving towards becoming a ‘Vishwa-Guru’. Chouhan further highlighted welfare initiatives, noting that millions of poor families had been provided houses, toilets, electricity and drinking water. He said women empowerment schemes, including ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’, had led to positive social changes, with Bihar witnessing significant progress in this area.
Swachhata Se Swagat Campaign
Chouhan, along with state agriculture minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, also participated in the ‘Swachhata Se Swagat’ campaign at Golghar to mark 12 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s govt at the Centre. Among those present were Vijay Kumar Sinha, cooperative minister Ramkripal Yadav, and MLAs Sanjeev Chaurasia, Ratnesh Kumar and Sanjay Gupta.
