Why 25 December Is More Than Just Christmas: The Story Of Good Governance Day

Good Governance Day, also known as Sushasan Diwas , is observed every year in India on December 25. The day marks the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a respected statesman remembered for his inclusive leadership, democratic values, and commitment to transparent governance.

Good Governance Day 2025 aims to remind citizens and institutions alike about the importance of accountability, efficiency, and people-centric administration in a democracy.

Why Is Good Governance Day Celebrated on December 25?

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. In recognition of his immense contribution to Indian politics and governance, the Government of India chose his birth anniversary to observe Good Governance Day. The date coincides with Christmas, making it a significant day of reflection and public service across the country.

History of Good Governance Day

The origins of Good Governance Day date back to 2014, when the Narendra Modi government announced December 25 as Sushasan Diwas. The decision came after Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya were posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.

Since then, Good Governance Day has been observed annually to honour Vajpayee’s legacy and promote the principles of good governance across public institutions.

Significance of Good Governance Day

The significance of Good Governance Day lies in spreading awareness about the roles, responsibilities, and obligations of the government towards its citizens. The day emphasises transparency, fairness, efficiency, and equal access to public services.

It also encourages citizens to actively participate in governance and understand how government schemes and policies are designed to improve their quality of life.

Key Government Initiatives Promoted on Good Governance Day

To strengthen the bond between citizens and administration, various initiatives are highlighted during Good Governance Day celebrations. According to official sources, the observance begins on December 19 and continues till December 25.

Some major initiatives supporting efficient and citizen-centric governance include:

• Digital India: Encourages e-governance, digital literacy, and easy access to government services.
• Right to Information Act: Ensures transparency by allowing citizens to seek public information
• MyGov Platform: Enables public participation by inviting feedback and ideas on government policies.
• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: Focuses on cleanliness, sanitation, and improved waste management nationwide.
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Reduces leakages by transferring subsidies directly to beneficiaries.
• PRAGATI 2.0: Monitors government projects to ensure timely execution and resolve bottlenecks.

These initiatives reflect the core spirit of Good Governance Day by prioritising transparency, accountability, and efficiency.

10 Powerful Quotes by Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Here are ten timeless quotes by Atal Bihari Vajpayee that continue to inspire leaders and citizens:

1. “My poet’s heart gives me the strength to face political problems, particularly those that have a bearing on my conscience."
2. “You can’t separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom."
3. “Our aim may be as high as the endless sky, but we should have a resolve in our minds to walk ahead, hand-in-hand, for victory will be ours."
4. “It is easy to win elections by raising the slogan of ‘garibi hatao’, but slogans do not remove poverty."
5. “If India is not secular, then India is not India at all."
6. “Our nuclear weapons are meant purely as a deterrent against nuclear adventure by an adversary."
7. “I believe that democracy is the best guarantor for peace and cooperation among nations."
8. “We hope the world will act in the spirit of enlightened self-interest."
9. “Poverty is multidimensional. It extends beyond money incomes to education, health care, political participation, and advancement of one’s own culture and social organisation."
10. “Empowering the individual means empowering the nation. And empowerment is best served through rapid economic growth with rapid social change."