Make legislative business meaningful, governance transparent: Governor

Thiruvananthapuram: Joining the nation in celebrating the 67th Republic Day, Governor Justice (Rtd) P Sathasivam Tuesday stressed upon the need of conducting the legislative business in a 'meaningful manner' and ensuring a transparent governance.

"I emphasise that the conduct of the legislative business should be carried out in a meaningful manner, justifying the expectations of the common man and keeping the healthy trends of a democratic polity, graduating to maturity," he said in his address after unfurling the national flag and inspecting the ceremonial parade at the Central Stadium here.

Since ours is a pluralistic society, it is imperative that we should attain inclusive growth, maintain communal harmony and sustain human dignity, he said.

"We should also ensure transparency and accountability in governance at all levels," the Governor added.

Emphasising the need to be more vigilant about terror threats the country is facing, he said "the Pathankot episode comes as a rude shock which is a timely reminder and crucial warning that we have to be doubly vigilant and alert so as to thwart terrorist threats from both inside and out."

Sathasivam also cautioned about the difficulties faced by farmers in the state, who are exposed to vagaries of the monsoon and exploitation by middlemen.

"Sustainability of agricultural operations and the modernisation is one of the key parameters for the economic stability of any state", he said stressing upon establishment of an adequate and efficient administrative mechanism to ensure reasonable returns to them.

He also urged the state government to have innovative programmes in tapping the full potential of demographic dividend for the advancement of the state.

The Governor also mentioned various development projects taken up by the state government including Vizhinjam Seaport Project and Kochi Metro Rail.

Various contingents, including armed forces, Central Reserve Police, Railway Protection Force, cadets of NCC, student police cadet and Bharat scouts and Guides and mounted police took part in the parade.

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and senior officials were also present.

Chief Justice Ashok Bhushan hoisted the flag at Kerala High Court in Kochi.

Republic Day celebrations were also held in district headquarters across the state.