PANAJI
Goa has drawn universal praise for being the only Indian State to practice the uniform civil code, Vice President of India M Venkaiah Naidu said on Friday.
Naidu, who is in Goa to inaugurate the new durbar hall at the historic Raj Bhavan complex, also said that despite achieving much in its 75 years of independence, India still faces grave challenges in the realm of literacy, poverty, regional disparities and social, gender discrimination.
"With its cultural and linguistic diversity, scenic splendour and warmth and hospitality of the people, Goa has always had a special place in my heart. Each of my visits to Goa has been a memorable one with its natural beauty, extensive forest cover, diversity of flora and fauna and rich cultural heritage," Naidu said at the inauguration function.
"The State remains at the top of tourist destinations in India. Incidentally, Goa is the only State in the country with a uniform civil code, something which attracted universal praise," he also said.
The Vice President also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was keen to transform the country by introducing a host of reforms, adding that transformation of the nation for the betterment of the people "should be the duty of every government irrespective of (political) parties".
"Even with 75 years of achievements, with too many achievements, we still have grave challenges like poverty, 20-22 per cent illiteracy, regional disparities and also social discrimination in certain areas, and also gender discrimination," Naidu said.
"These five challenges, whatever the percentage may be, we must all understand seriously, introspect and work towards eradicating the social evils, bridging the urban-rural divide and also economically uplifting the poorest of the poor, empowering the women and eradicating illiteracy," Naidu said, adding that political parties should take the issues up as a challenge before them.
Naidu also said that India, the world's largest democracy was functioning smoothly on account of the country's ancient civilization.
"We are a great example to the entire world community, whoever believes in democracy. We are the largest parliamentary democracy, because of our ancient civilization, our democracy is moving on smoothly," he said.
