While addressing the Inter-State Council meeting, convened after a gap of 10 years, the Prime Minister told the Chief Ministers that “we should focus on how we can make our country prepared to counter challenges to our internal security”. Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked the states to focus on intelligence sharing, which will help the country to stay “alert” and “updated” in countering internal security challenges.

“We have to remain alert and updated always,” he said. Modi was interacting with all Chief Ministers for the first time on a single platform ever since he assumed the charge two years ago.

“With close cooperation, we will not only strengthen the Centre-State relations but make a better future for the citizens,” he said.

“It would be difficult for any Government to successfully implement a scheme on its own. Therefore, provision of adequate financial resources is as important as the responsibility for implementation,” he said.

“This forum of cooperative federalism is the perfect setting to deliberate on the interests of the people, address their problems, and take collective and concrete decisions. It highlights the vision of the makers of our Constitution,” he added.

“The more we are able to forge consensus on these vital issues, the better we shall be able to tackle them. In doing so, we shall not only strengthen the spirit of cooperative federalism and Centre-State relations, but also secure a better future for our citizens,” he said.

“I am sure you will share your thoughts and suggestions on all the agenda items. These will be of tremendous value,” he said. “I am happy to share that the total amount received by states from the Centre during 2015-16 is 21 per cent higher than the amount received in 2014-15, he said.

“Auctions of coal blocks will yield 3.35 lakh crore rupees to States in the years to come. Auctions of other mines will yield an additional 18,000 crore rupees to states,” he said.

Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav, belonging to the Samajwadi Party and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of the Congress did not participate in the meeting.

Mehbooba Mufti, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, which is witnessing a turmoil following the violent protests after the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen militant Burhan Wani also did not participate in the meeting. Ms. Mehbooba belongs to the Peoples Democratic Party.

Chief Ministers of all states, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories and 17 Union Ministers are members of the Inter-State Council.

By Premji