President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday delivered her address to the joint sitting of Parliament at the commencement of the Budget Session, outlining the government’s vision for building a Viksit Bharat and highlighting achievements across social justice, economic growth, infrastructure, national security, and global engagement.
Describing the past decade as a strong foundation for India’s rapid progress, the President said the country has entered the second phase of the 21st century with confidence, backed by reforms and sustained development. She noted that the first 25 years of the century were marked by “numerous successes, glorious achievements, and extraordinary experiences,” positioning India firmly on the path towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Recalling major national milestones, President Murmu referred to the celebrations marking 150 years of Vande Mataram, the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the 150th birth anniversaries of Birsa Munda and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and the centenary of Bhupen Hazarika, stating that such commemorations inspire younger generations and strengthen national unity.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to social justice, the President said that over 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty in the last decade. She cited initiatives such as the construction of four crore pucca houses, expansion of piped drinking water under the Jal Jeevan Mission, and the provision of LPG connections to over 10 crore households through the Ujjwala Yojana. She also noted that more than ₹6.75 lakh crore has been transferred directly to beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer in the last year alone.
On healthcare, the President said Ayushman Bharat has enabled over 11 crore free medical treatments, while disease-control efforts have led to the elimination of trachoma and significant progress in tackling sickle cell anaemia and Japanese encephalitis. She added that nearly 95 crore citizens are now covered under social security schemes, a significant rise from 25 crore in 2014.
President Murmu underlined the strong performance of the agriculture and allied sectors, noting record foodgrain production of over 350 million tonnes and India’s emergence as the world’s largest rice producer and second-largest fish producer. She also highlighted growth in milk production, manufacturing, mobile phone exports, and electric vehicle exports.
Referring to infrastructure development, she said India has made unprecedented investments across roads, railways, metros, inland waterways, and aviation. She cited milestones such as the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, the Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu, expansion of the Vande Bharat train network, and India crossing 1,000 kilometres of metro rail network.
On national security, the President said India has sent a firm message against terrorism through decisive actions, including Operation Sindoor, and reiterated the government’s resolve to eradicate Maoist violence, which has been reduced from 126 affected districts to just eight. She said peace and development are returning to previously affected regions.
Highlighting economic reforms, President Murmu referred to changes in GST and income tax laws, including tax exemption for income up to ₹12 lakh, consolidation of labour laws into four codes, and steps to strengthen transparency and curb corruption. She said India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy despite global challenges and has attracted nearly USD 750 billion in foreign direct investment over the past 11 years.
The President also spoke about India’s growing role in emerging sectors such as semiconductors, renewable energy, nuclear power, artificial intelligence, and space exploration, noting progress under the Gaganyaan mission and the country’s plans for an Indian space station.
Emphasising women-led development, she said more than 10 crore women are now linked to self-help groups, over two crore have become “Lakhpati Didis,” and women are playing a growing role in defence, sports, entrepreneurship, and technology.
On foreign policy, President Murmu said India continues to act as a bridge in a complex global environment, amplifying the voice of the Global South and playing a humanitarian role during international crises. She noted India’s leadership roles in forums such as G20, BRICS, BIMSTEC, and SCO, and announced plans to host a Global AI Impact Summit.
The President also stressed the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage, citing initiatives such as the Gyan Bharatam Mission for digitisation of ancient manuscripts, establishment of tribal museums, and UNESCO’s recognition of Diwali as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Concluding her address, President Murmu urged Members of Parliament to rise above differences on issues of national interest and work collectively towards the goal of Viksit Bharat. “The journey towards a developed India is continuous and requires collective determination, discipline, and unity,” she said, expressing confidence in the nation’s ability to achieve its aspirations.
