President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday emphasized the need to balance modern development with traditional values, stating that such a combination forms the foundation of a strong, prosperous and inclusive society.
Addressing the gathering at the programme titled “Empowerment of Tribal Society by Spiritual Awakening”, organized by Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya in Betul, Madhya Pradesh, the President highlighted the importance of spirituality, social harmony and environmental consciousness in nation-building.
Speaking at the event, President Murmu said that in today’s fast-paced world, increasingly driven by consumerism, spiritual purity has become essential for all sections of society. She noted that spirituality provides the foundation for developing an egalitarian social order and a sustainable lifestyle that respects natural resources.
The President observed that the modern world is grappling with growing stress, social tensions and conflicts, making spiritual awakening more relevant than ever before. In this context, she said, initiatives such as the conference on tribal empowerment through spirituality acquire greater significance.
Highlighting the unique strengths of India’s tribal communities, President Murmu said their way of life naturally reflects the core principles of spirituality. Their deep connection with nature and natural resources fosters a worldview centered on harmony, sustainability and collective welfare.
She noted that tribal communities possess an inherent understanding of environmental stewardship and community well-being, values that are increasingly important in addressing contemporary global challenges. The President expressed satisfaction that the Brahma Kumaris organization has been working with tribal communities across different parts of the country for many years, contributing to their social and spiritual development.
Emphasizing a holistic approach to empowerment, President Murmu said the upliftment of any section of society cannot be measured solely in economic terms. True empowerment, she remarked, is achieved when individuals develop self-confidence, self-respect and awareness while remaining mindful of their responsibilities toward society.
The President said spiritual awakening helps individuals recognize their inner strengths, promotes positive thinking and connects them with higher purposes in life. Such values, she said, are essential for building resilient and responsible communities.
The President further stressed that development becomes meaningful only when it remains rooted in a society’s cultural heritage and core values. She said genuine progress should not weaken traditional values but rather draw strength from them while contributing to social advancement.
“A balance between development and traditional values forms the foundation of a strong and prosperous society,” she said, adding that only a holistic approach can ensure harmony, equality and inclusive growth.
President Murmu said that such a vision would help create a society where development benefits all sections equally and where social cohesion remains strong despite rapid economic and technological changes.
Calling for collective efforts toward nation-building, she urged citizens to work with greater commitment to realize the vision of a developed India by 2047. She said spirituality, social harmony, environmental conservation and human welfare must serve as the cornerstones of the country’s journey toward inclusive development.
The President noted that achieving the goal of a developed India would require not only economic progress but also a strong moral and social foundation rooted in India’s civilizational values.
