President Droupadi Murmu, in her final address to the joint session of Parliament before the Lok Sabha elections, asserted that a robust and enduring government could propel rapid domestic development and position the country as a global friend during times of global uncertainty. Highlighting the achievements of the Narendra Modi-led administrations over the past decade, she emphasized the significance of January 22, marking the consecration of the newly constructed Ram temple in Ayodhya, as a pivotal moment in history.
“In the annals of civilizations, there arise pivotal moments that carve the path for centuries to come. India’s history is replete with such defining junctures. This year, on January 22, the nation experienced one such epochal moment. After centuries of anticipation, Ram Lalla has finally found his abode in the magnificent temple in Ayodhya,” stated the President in her speech.
“This has been a matter of aspirations and faith for millions of our fellow citizens, and its resolution has been achieved in a spirit of harmony… For centuries, the construction of the Ram Mandir was an aspiration. Today, it stands as a tangible reality,” she continued. The mention of the Ram Mandir prompted resounding applause and chants of “Jai Shree Ram” from the members. At one point, even Congress leader Sonia Gandhi was observed vigorously thumping the desk.
The President highlighted that the construction of the Ram Mandir and the repeal of Article 370 were pivotal moments in India’s journey to address historical challenges and focus on future development.
“In the last decade, India has seen several long-awaited objectives achieved, serving the national interest. The dream of building the Ram Mandir, nurtured for centuries, has finally materialized. Similarly, the apprehensions surrounding the removal of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir are now a thing of the past.”
President Murmu addressed the joint session in the Lok Sabha chamber of the new Parliament building for the first time on Wednesday. Previously, joint sittings were held in the Central Hall of the old building. During her address, she emphasized the central government’s policy priorities and plans for the upcoming year. President Murmu suggested that the foundation of a developed India would rest on four pillars: youth power, women power, farmers, and the poor.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has championed the ‘four-caste formula,’ asserting that the poor, youth, women, and farmers constitute the “biggest castes,” countering what he sees as caste-based politics from the Opposition. BJP sources indicate that these segments will be the focal point of government announcements and programs, including proposals expected in the budget to be presented on Thursday.
“Their circumstances and aspirations resonate across every segment of society in our nation. Consequently, my government is tirelessly dedicated to empowering these four pillars. A substantial portion of tax revenues has been allocated towards their empowerment,” stated President Murmu.
Emphasizing the necessity of a robust and steadfast government for the nation’s rapid progress, President Murmu reiterated, “The evaluations by both national and international agencies hinge on India’s policies. Unprecedented investments in infrastructure and policy reforms are bolstering investor confidence. The Indian populace’s preference for a stable, majority government has also reinstated global confidence,” she added, highlighting that India’s strength in governance has been advantageous amidst global upheavals and uncertainties.
“In various parts of the world, conflicts continue to rage. However, my government has positioned India as a Vishwa-Mitra during these challenging times. It is India’s role as Vishwa-Mitra that has elevated us as the voice of the Global South today,” stated President Murmu.
Regarding the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya Dham, the President noted that within just five days, 1.3 million devotees had visited for ‘darshan’. Addressing past apprehensions surrounding the removal of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, she remarked, “Those concerns are now history.” President Murmu highlighted the current environment of peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir, contrasting it with the previous era of shutdowns with the vibrancy now evident in markets.
In addition, she underscored the transformation of the Indian economy, noting its shift from being among the ‘fragile five’ to now moving in the right direction and pace due to significant government reforms over the past decade. Citing data from NITI Aayog, she remarked, “During my government’s tenure of 10 years, nearly 250 million people have emerged from poverty.”
“For years, we’ve echoed the slogans of eliminating poverty, and finally, we’re witnessing substantial strides in that direction,” she declared. President Murmu emphasized that over the last decade, the administration has prioritized good governance and transparency in every facet of governance.
She underscored, “My administration remains steadfast in its efforts to streamline business operations in India and foster a conducive environment for entrepreneurship.” President Murmu affirmed the government’s unwavering dedication to empowering MSMEs and small-scale entrepreneurs.
She pointed out that previously, the country grappled with double-digit inflation, but now it stands at a steady 4 percent. President Murmu underscored the remarkable growth trajectory during the Modi government’s tenure by citing significant statistics: the surge in start-up registrations from 94,000 to 1,60,000 annually, the rise in GST payers from 98 lakh to 1.40 crore since 2017, and the escalation in vehicle sales from 13 crore to 21 crore over the past decade.
Emphasizing the government’s dedication to fostering women-led development, President Murmu highlighted the enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (women’s reservation bill), which reinforces the commitment to women’s empowerment. “My government has remained steadfast in its pursuit of reform, performance, and transformation,” she affirmed.
She delineated the foundational pillars for constructing a ‘Viksit Bharat’, underscoring the pivotal roles of youth, women, farmers, and the economically disadvantaged.
President Murmu also highlighted the government’s shift towards emphasizing duties over rights, noting that it has spurred a sense of civic responsibility among citizens. “Today, there’s a growing recognition that fulfilling one’s duties ensures the realization of one’s rights,” she remarked.
Expressing optimism about constructive deliberations during the Budget session, slated to conclude on February 9, President Droupadi Murmu voiced confidence in the Parliament’s members. “I believe we’ll engage in fruitful discussions within this new parliamentary edifice,” she conveyed during the joint sitting.
Acknowledging the fleeting nature of time and the transient nature of political roles, President Murmu urged for a legacy that resonates with future generations. “While many of us may not be present in this chamber in 2047, our legacy should endure as a beacon for posterity,” she concluded.
The President arrived at Parliament House in a buggy to deliver her address to the joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. As she entered the House, the ‘sengol’ (sceptre) was carried in front of her.
