New Delhi, January 25th
President Pratibha Patil addressed the nation on the eve of Republic day on Wednesday She .said one has to be cautious in bringing about reforms so that the ranking of democratic institutions does not come down.“While bringing about reforms and improving institutions, we have to be cautious that while shaking the tree to remove the bad fruit, we do not bring down the tree itself,” she said in her address to the nation on the eve of 63rd Republic DayShe said India can take pride in its democratic record but as in any functional democracy, it faces pressures and challenges. Ms. Patil said there would be short term pressures, but in this process the long term goals must not be lost sight of, and everyone must work together on core national agenda.Emphasising that those who believe in democracy must try to see the rationale in others’ point of view, she said concord and notdiscord is the way forward for a country as large as India. All issues, therefore, must be resolved through dialogue and there can be no place for violence. Negativity and rejection cannot be the path for a vibrant country that is moving to seek its destiny, she said.
Ms. Patil said Indian institutions may not be flawless but they have coped with many challenges.Ms. Patil said, “Our judiciary has a reputable standing. Our media too has played an important role. With all institutions working together for the same national purpose it will create a stream of positive energy.” The President said education must reach every section of the society, as must access to health.“We need to expand health services, particularly in rural areas. We need quality medical facilities for our population, which are affordable. In today’s era of ICT, technology can be very useful in our mission of health and education,” she said.
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