Agencies | New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday underlined the crucial role of states in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation, asserting that the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” cannot be realised unless every state achieves comprehensive development.
The Prime Minister made the remarks while chairing the 11th Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The day-long meeting was attended by chief ministers from all 28 states and focused on strategies for inclusive and sustainable development.
Addressing the gathering, Modi emphasised the need to enhance ease of doing business across states to attract greater investment and drive economic growth. He stressed that cooperative efforts between the Centre and states are essential for achieving national development goals.
Briefing the media after the meeting, NITI Aayog Vice-Chairperson Ashok Kumar Lahiri said discussions centred on the “Inclusive Human Development Framework,” with participants deliberating on key issues related to economic growth, social development, and governance.
Energy security emerged as another major area of discussion, with the Prime Minister and several chief ministers highlighting the importance of renewable energy initiatives, including rooftop solar power projects.
According to a NITI Aayog member, Prime Minister Modi also urged states to undertake district-level Gross Domestic Product (GDP) assessments to better measure development and economic progress at the grassroots level.
Responding to media queries, Lahiri said there was a broad consensus among participants on the need for planned urbanisation to effectively manage India’s growing urban population and ensure sustainable development.
He further clarified that no chief minister sought specific assistance related to the ongoing crisis in West Asia during the meeting. Lahiri also stated that issues concerning examination paper leaks were not discussed at the Governing Council meeting.
