New Delhi: On the eve of Republic Day, President Draupadi Murmu addressed the nation, extending heartfelt greetings to all citizens on this important national occasion. She expressed enthusiasm for the celebrations across India and abroad, acknowledging the significance of Republic Day in reflecting on the country’s past, present, and future.
The President recalled the country’s journey since independence on August 15, 1947, and the adoption of the Constitution on January 26, 1950, which laid the foundation of India as a sovereign, democratic republic. She emphasized that the Constitution defines the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, which continue to shape the nation’s democratic framework and unity.
President Murmu paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for unifying the nation and noted the recent celebrations of his 150th birth anniversary, which strengthened national pride and unity. She also highlighted the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ and its role in inspiring patriotism across the country.
Marking the recent ‘Parakram Diwas’ on January 23, the President remembered Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and encouraged citizens, especially youth, to draw inspiration from his unwavering patriotism.
The President acknowledged the contributions of various sections of society, including the armed forces, police personnel, farmers, women, healthcare workers, sanitation workers, educators, scientists, engineers, laborers, youth, artists, entrepreneurs, and public servants, all of whom play vital roles in nation-building.
She praised the rising participation of women in all spheres, citing significant achievements in education, self-help groups, sports, and political representation, including nearly 46 percent women representatives in Panchayati Raj institutions. The ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Act’ was noted as a key step toward empowering women leaders and fostering inclusive development.
The President highlighted ongoing efforts for the welfare and development of marginalized communities, including tribal groups, through various schemes and initiatives such as the ‘Adikarmayogi’ campaign and ‘National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission’.
Addressing the agricultural sector, she recognized farmers as the backbone of the economy, emphasizing government support through schemes like the ‘PM Kisan Samman Nidhi’ for fair pricing, credit, insurance, and modern farming practices.
She also pointed out successful poverty alleviation measures, including the ‘PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana’ that supports over 81 crore beneficiaries and has helped build over four crore houses with basic amenities for the poor, aligning with Gandhian ideals.
President Murmu spoke about India’s youthful population as a source of immense talent and energy, contributing to entrepreneurship, sports, science, and innovation. She mentioned initiatives such as ‘Mera Yuva Bharat’ that foster skill development and leadership among youth, and expressed confidence in their role in building a developed India by 2047.
The President described India as one of the fastest-growing major economies, striving to become the world’s third-largest economy through investment in infrastructure, economic reforms, and labor code improvements, underlining the importance of self-reliance and GST implementation in unifying the market.
She celebrated India’s rich cultural, spiritual, and scientific heritage, noting efforts to preserve and promote ancient knowledge through missions like ‘Gyan Bharatam’. Making the Constitution accessible in all scheduled Indian languages was highlighted as a way to foster constitutional awareness and national pride.
President Murmu praised the successful adoption of digital payments across the country, calling it an example for the world, and encouraged citizens to actively participate in achieving national goals.
Security and defense were also addressed, with recognition of recent successful operations against terrorism and appreciation for the armed forces’ dedication, including her visits to troops and advanced military installations.
She underscored environmental protection as a critical priority, citing India’s leadership in promoting sustainable lifestyles and calling for efforts to preserve natural resources for future generations, while advocating for global peace and harmony.
Concluding her address, President Murmu invoked the patriotic spirit, urging all citizens to work together with a ‘Nation First’ mindset to strengthen the republic further. She extended her best wishes for the happiness, peace, security, and prosperity of all Indians.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
