Bangalore, Jan 26 (IANS): Functioning public services would reinforce people's faith in democratic governance, Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj said here Sunday on the occasion of the 65th Republic Day.

"Of late, there is public resentment against corruption, lack of probity and failure to deliver public services, especially to deprived sections. Functioning public services is imperative to revive people's faith in good governance," Bhardwaj said in his Republic Day address at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground in the city centre.

Terming the national recognition to the state government's 'Sakala' scheme for delivering public services a notable achievement, the governor said the ruling Congress should mitigate malnutrition among hapless children across the state.

"The state government is treading on right path by ensuring food security to the people and reducing infant mortality across the state. Its efforts to provide drinking water in villages and ensuring electronic transfer of wages to workers under the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act scheme are commendable," Bhardwaj said.

Noting that the state has a long way to go in fostering participatory and inclusive growth and enhancing living standards, Bhardwaj said governance had to be seen as an instrument for social change to eradicate poverty, inequality and social justice.

"We cannot afford to weaken people's faith in governance or ignore their aspirations conveyed through outcome of elections. The people should be heard, respected and given effect to by the governments," the governor said.