Help battle H1N1, Patil tells nation

President Pratibha Patil used the occasion of her address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day to urge the people to help the government battle drought and H1N1 outbreak. 

“This year, the monsoon has been less than normal impacting agriculture and availability of water. We have to be prepared to face the situation. The government is taking all possible steps to deal with it,” Patil said. 

She commended the government’s efforts in handling the situation arising out of the H1N1 outbreak.  “Citizens have to come forward to contribute to the government’s efforts in these areas and in other development initiatives through public-private partnerships, NGOs, community groups or self-help groups.”

At the same time, Patil noted that the expectations of the people “are rising as they are becoming more aware of their rights and seek better opportunities. Facilities, amenities and services meant for them whether they are living in rural or urban areas can be delivered smoothly only if there is an effective governance system that is less cumbersome and more transparent and accountable”.

Patil made a strong pitch for social empowerment, emphasising the need for it to occupy center stage of national consciousness. “There are the weaker and vulnerable sections of society who are not full partners in the growth and development process. These sections need to be drawn into the national mainstream,” she said. “Our narrative of growth should be a story of opportunity and a life of dignity for all.”

The president said changes were visible in the attitude of these sections and more and more people were availing of the opportunities being provided by the government. “People today realise the advantages of educations, and the right to seize opportunities”. She also lauded the passage of the Right to Education Bill.

Noting that marginalised sections of society need to be given access to education, health and skill-building — the tools of empowerment, Patil said: “This will equip them with abilities and capabilities and generate confidence about their future prospects. This will give them a sense of control over their destinies.”  

Holding that it was “within the realm of possibility to achieve this”, Patil said “signs of change are becoming visible”. 

“Today, there are girls joining colleges, whose parents had never ever been to school. This is a development that has happened within a generation,” she said.

Noting that there was “outrage” when money meant for welfare schemes was “pilfered” through “corrupt practices”, the president urged administrators to be “responsive” to the needs of the people, “Their work is a public service — commitment, dedication and honesty should be the hallmarks of their work,” she said.