New Delhi, Jan 25 (JKNS): On the eve of the 77th Republic Day, President of India Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation, reflecting on India’s constitutional journey, democratic values and collective responsibility in nation-building.
In her wide-ranging address, the President paid tribute to freedom fighters and constitutional framers, lauded the contributions of citizens across sectors, highlighted women-led development, youth power, economic growth and national security, and reaffirmed India’s commitment to unity, peace and a ‘Nation First’ ethos as the country marches towards the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
As per news agency JKNS, President of India Droupadi Murmu said that Republic Day offers an opportunity to reflect on India’s journey across the past, present and future. She recalled that the freedom movement culminated in Independence on August 15, 1947, enabling Indians to become the architects of their own national destiny.
The President said that with the enforcement of the Constitution on January 26, 1950, India began its march towards constitutional ideals. She described Bharat as the birthplace of democracy, noting that the democratic republic came into existence after shedding the dominion system.
Highlighting the Constitution as the foundation of the world’s largest republic, the President said its core values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity define the nation. She added that the framers of the Constitution laid a strong foundation for nationalism and unity through its provisions.
Referring to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the President said the Iron Man of India unified the nation, and his 150th birth anniversary celebrations have strengthened national pride and unity. She noted that India’s cultural oneness, woven from north to south and east to west, continues to inspire efforts promoting unity.
The President also spoke about the celebrations marking 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram, calling it a prayer that instils patriotism. She highlighted contributions by Subramanya Bharati, Sri Aurobindo and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in spreading the spirit of the song across languages and regions.
Paying tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the President recalled that his birth anniversary on January 23 is observed as Parakram Diwas to inspire youth. She said Netaji’s slogan Jai Hind remains a declaration of India’s national pride.
The President lauded the contributions of citizens from all walks of life, including armed forces personnel, police, farmers, women, healthcare workers, sanitation staff, teachers, scientists, engineers, workers, artists, entrepreneurs and youth. She said Overseas Indians also enhance India’s global image through their achievements.
Referring to National Voters’ Day observed on January 25, the President said voting strengthens democracy and political awareness, in line with Dr. B R Ambedkar’s vision. She noted that rising participation of women voters has added new strength to the Republic.
Emphasising women-led development, the President said initiatives related to health, education, safety and economic empowerment have expanded women’s participation. She cited the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign and Jan Dhan Yojana, noting that a majority of bank accounts are held by women.
She said women are breaking stereotypes across sectors including agriculture, defence, space and sports. Highlighting achievements in cricket and chess, the President said India’s daughters have set global benchmarks, making the nation proud.
The President noted that women now account for nearly 46 percent of representatives in Panchayati Raj institutions. She said the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam will further strengthen political empowerment and play a key role in building Viksit Bharat.
Speaking on inclusive development, the President said special focus has been given to tribal welfare. She highlighted initiatives such as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, Adi Karmayogi campaign, Eklavya Model Residential Schools and the Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission.
Calling farmers the backbone of the economy, the President said efforts are being made to ensure fair prices, credit access, irrigation and modern practices. She said schemes like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi recognise and support farmers’ contributions.
The President said millions have been lifted out of poverty through welfare measures. She highlighted PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana and large-scale housing initiatives as steps towards dignified living and Sarvodaya.
Referring to India’s youth, the President said the country has the world’s largest young population, driving innovation and entrepreneurship. She said initiatives like MY Bharat are empowering youth to contribute to nation-building and the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.
On the economy, the President said India remains the world’s fastest-growing major economy and is progressing towards becoming the third-largest economy. She emphasised infrastructure development, self-reliance and reforms such as GST and labour codes.
Highlighting India’s spiritual heritage, the President said traditions like Yoga and Ayurveda have gained global recognition. She reiterated the message of fraternity and unity echoed by social reformers and spiritual leaders.
She said efforts are underway to shed colonial mindsets and promote Indian knowledge systems through initiatives like the Gyan Bharatam Mission. Making the Constitution available in all Indian languages, she said, will strengthen constitutional nationalism.
The President said governance reforms have reduced the gap between citizens and government through simplification, technology and trust-based administration, improving ease of living.
She highlighted people’s participation in national campaigns, citing India’s leadership in digital payments as an example of collective effort transforming the nation.
Referring to national security, the President said Operation Sindoor demonstrated India’s defence preparedness and self-reliance. She praised the armed forces for their readiness across land, air and sea.
On environmental protection, the President said India is leading global efforts through the LiFE initiative and urged citizens to preserve resources for future generations.
Concluding her address, the President called for unity, peace and a Nation First spirit, urging citizens to strengthen patriotism and work together to make the Republic more glorious. —(JKNS)
