PM Modi chairs NDA CMs meet: Caste census, Op Sindoor, governance top agenda

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a crucial day-long meeting of Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers from National Democratic Alliance (NDA) ruled states in Delhi on Sunday. The high-level conclave, held at Hotel Ashoka, saw the participation of around 20 CMs and 18 Deputy CMs, alongside top Union ministers including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP chief JP Nadda.

Key issues discussed at the meeting included Operation Sindoor, the upcoming caste-based census, and governance best practices. The event also marked tributes to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22.

Among the early attendees were Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, MP CM Mohan Yadav, Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi and Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio.

A resolution was passed lauding the Indian armed forces and PM Modi’s “decisive leadership.” Leaders also showcased development and welfare schemes from their respective states as part of a governance showcase.

Shiv Sena leader and Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde made a strong pitch for Operation Sindoor, calling it a "historic response" to forces threatening India's peace. He praised PM Modi as a “valiant and selfless patriot” and referred to his recent fiery statement: "PM Modi doesn’t have blood in his veins, but hot sindoor."

“Operation Sindoor has given a renewed sense of pride and confidence to Indians,” Shinde said. “It shows our government's unwavering commitment to national security.”

BJP leader Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, who heads the party’s good governance cell, confirmed that resolutions would be passed to commend Operation Sindoor and support the Centre's plan to include caste data in the next national census.

The meeting also included discussion on the first anniversary of Modi 3.0, 10th International Yoga Day, and plans to commemorate 50 years of the Emergency in 2025.