In her address to the newly constituted 18th Lok Sabha, President Droupadi Murmu laid out an ambitious roadmap for India’s development, emphasizing the government’s commitment to reform, women’s empowerment, and economic growth.
The President’s speech, which traditionally outlines the government’s agenda, highlighted key achievements of the past decade and set forth priorities for the coming years.
Economic Growth and Global Standing
President Murmu celebrated India’s rise to become the world’s 5th largest economy, growing at an average rate of 8% annually from 2021 to 2024 despite global challenges. She expressed confidence in India’s potential to become the 3rd largest economy, contributing significantly to global growth.
Focus on Key Sectors
The President emphasized the government’s equal focus on manufacturing, services, and agriculture. She highlighted initiatives like PLI schemes, efforts to reduce logistics costs, and support for agro-based industries. The address also underscored the importance of green industries and sustainable development.
Women’s Empowerment
A significant portion of the speech was dedicated to women-led development. President Murmu praised the recent enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and outlined various schemes aimed at economic empowerment of women, including the goal of creating 3 crore ‘Lakhpati Didis’.
Infrastructure and Regional Development
The President detailed extensive infrastructure development across the country, including road construction, expansion of metro networks, and advancements in the aviation sector. Special attention was given to the development of the North-Eastern region.
Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation
President Murmu highlighted the government’s efforts in poverty alleviation, citing that 25 crore Indians have been lifted out of poverty in the last decade. She announced the expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme to cover all elderly above 70 years of age.
Defense and Security
The address emphasized modernization of armed forces and reforms in the defense sector, including efforts towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing and increased exports.
Youth and Education
President Murmu outlined various initiatives for youth empowerment, including the establishment of new educational institutions and programs to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Democratic Values and Constitutional Ethos
The President stressed the importance of preserving faith in democratic institutions and denounced attempts to undermine the credibility of India’s democracy. She also highlighted the upcoming 75th year of the adoption of the Indian Constitution.
International Relations
President Murmu portrayed India as a ‘Vishwa-Bandhu’ (friend of the world), citing the country’s role in global forums and its commitment to being a first responder in crises.
Looking Ahead
The address concluded with a call for cooperation among all members of Parliament to work towards making India a developed nation by 2047, declaring the coming era as “India’s century.”
This comprehensive address by President Murmu sets the tone for the government’s agenda in its third consecutive term, emphasizing continuity in policies while outlining new initiatives aimed at accelerating India’s progress on the global stage.
