President Murmu Urges Unity And Self-Reliance In Independence Day Eve Address
President Droupadi Murmu, in her address to the nation on the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, extended heartfelt greetings and celebrated the enduring spirit of India’s democracy, rooted in the sacrifices of freedom fighters who secured independence 78 years ago. She emphasized the nation’s pride in its democratic ethos, which grants universal adult franchise and reflects India’s ancient republican traditions, making it the “mother of democracy.”
Reflecting on the pain of Partition, observed as Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas, President Murmu paid tribute to its victims and underscored the resilience that has driven India’s progress since 1947. She highlighted the Constitution’s core values—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity—as pillars of democracy, with human dignity at their heart. These principles, rediscovered during the freedom struggle, have guided India’s journey from poverty at independence to remarkable achievements across sectors.
President Murmu noted India’s economic strides, with a 6.5 percent GDP growth rate in the last fiscal, making it the fastest-growing major economy. She attributed this to calibrated reforms, effective economic management, and the hard work of farmers and workers. Inflation remains controlled, exports are rising, and welfare initiatives have lifted millions out of poverty while reducing income inequality and regional disparities. States previously lagging economically are now showcasing their potential.
Infrastructure development has been a key focus, with the Bharatmala Pariyojana expanding national highways and the Railways introducing advanced trains. The rail link to the Kashmir valley, an engineering marvel, is set to boost trade and tourism. Urbanization efforts under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation have improved water and sewerage access, while the Jal Jeevan Mission advances rural water supply. In healthcare, the Ayushman Bharat scheme, covering over 55 crore people, now includes all senior citizens above 70, ensuring equitable access to quality care.
The President highlighted India’s leadership in the digital economy, with near-universal 4G connectivity enabling widespread digital payments and Direct Benefit Transfers, minimizing leakages. India accounts for over half of global digital transactions, bolstering its GDP. The India-AI mission is strengthening AI capabilities tailored to national needs, positioning India as a potential global AI hub by 2047.
President Murmu praised initiatives like Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, inspired by the Swadeshi Movement and Mahatma Gandhi’s call to promote Indian products. She urged citizens to embrace Indian-made goods, aligning with the spirit of National Handloom Day, celebrated on August 7 to honor weavers. The government’s focus on ease of living and business has empowered marginalized communities, youth, and women, with the National Education Policy fostering value-based learning and the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam advancing women’s empowerment. Achievements in sports, chess, and space, including Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission to the International Space Station, reflect the aspirations of India’s youth.
Addressing the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir, Murmu lauded Operation Sindoor as a decisive response, showcasing India’s military precision and self-reliance in defence. The operation, which destroyed terrorist hubs without targeting civilians, exemplified India’s unity and strategic clarity.
The President called for environmental protection to combat climate change, urging a shift in habits and a renewed relationship with nature. She extended greetings to soldiers, police, judiciary, civil servants, Indian missions abroad, and the diaspora, emphasizing their role in nation-building. Quoting Gandhi’s stance against corruption in democracy, Murmu urged citizens to pledge against corruption and contribute to a prosperous, self-reliant Viksit Bharat by 2047.
