Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over a crucial day-long conclave of National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers in New Delhi on Sunday. The meeting is set to focus on strengthening governance, sharing best practices, and aligning state and central priorities under NDA leadership.

Focus on governance and coordination

The conclave will bring together around 20 Chief Ministers and 18 Deputy Chief Ministers from all NDA-ruled states. The goal is to foster collaboration between the Centre and states and discuss innovative governance models implemented across NDA regions.

Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, head of the BJP’s good governance department, stated that the session will include detailed presentations by state leaders highlighting impactful initiatives and schemes. The forum aims to promote knowledge-sharing and improve governance outcomes across the board.

Resolutions on national security and caste census

Two major resolutions are expected to be passed during the meeting. The first will commend the armed forces and PM Modi for the success of Operation Sindoor, reaffirming the NDA’s strong stance on national security. The second resolution will praise the government’s decision to conduct caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, positioning it as a milestone in the country’s journey toward social justice.

The resolution on caste enumeration will highlight that the Modi government is the first since independence to take such a step, contrasting it with what BJP leaders call the “betrayals” of backward classes by the Congress and its allies.

Key events ahead

The NDA leadership will also plan for upcoming national events. These include the first anniversary of the NDA government after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the 10th International Yoga Day, and the 50th anniversary of the Emergency. Discussions will centre on how to commemorate these events and mobilise public support.

States voice their priorities at NITI Aayog meeting

A day ahead of the conclave, several BJP-led states presented their demands and suggestions at the NITI Aayog meeting. Haryana’s CM Nayab Singh Saini called for stronger Centre-state collaboration. Assam’s Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted major infrastructure projects linking the state to Southeast Asia.

Rajasthan’s Bhajan Lal Sharma urged the Centre to allow Pong Dam to fill to capacity to ensure fair water distribution. Odisha’s CM Mohan Charan Majhi noted that projects worth Rs 17,500 crore are ready for approval.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami asked for a national plan for urban drainage systems and the inclusion of lift irrigation under central agricultural schemes, citing the state’s unique geography.