“Inclusive Growth Is the Strength of Our Republic”: President Murmu

• President addresses nation on eve of Republic Day 2026
• Emphasises Constitution, unity and democratic values
• Highlights women-led development and youth power
• Stresses economic growth, defence strength and Atmanirbharta

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 25th Jan: President of India Droupadi Murmu on Sunday addressed the nation on the eve of Republic Day 2026, extending greetings to citizens in India and abroad and calling for collective efforts to strengthen the Republic through unity, constitutional values and inclusive development.

The President said Republic Day offers an opportunity to reflect on India’s past, present and future, recalling that the enforcement of the Constitution on January 26, 1950, laid the foundation of the world’s largest democratic republic. She said the ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity continue to define India’s national character.

Referring to national icons, President Murmu highlighted the role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in unifying the nation and noted the ongoing commemorations marking his 150th birth anniversary. She also recalled celebrations of 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram and paid tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on Parakram Diwas, calling his slogan “Jai Hind” a declaration of national pride.

The President paid tribute to soldiers, farmers, healthcare workers, sanitation workers, teachers, scientists, entrepreneurs, artists and youth, acknowledging their role in nation-building. She also praised overseas Indians for enhancing India’s global image.

Marking National Voters’ Day on January 25, she highlighted the importance of voting in strengthening democracy and noted increasing women’s participation in elections as a positive sign for the Republic.

Emphasising women-led development, President Murmu said women are breaking stereotypes and excelling in fields ranging from agriculture to space and sports. She highlighted the success of women in international sporting events and noted the growing role of women in Panchayati Raj institutions. She said the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam will further strengthen political empowerment of women and support the vision of women-led development.

She also highlighted welfare initiatives for tribal communities, including Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, Eklavya Model Residential Schools, health screening under the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, and schemes such as PM-JANMAN and Dharti Aaba Janajatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan.

Referring to farmers, the President said Annadata farmers are the backbone of the economy and credited them for food security and agricultural exports. She highlighted initiatives to ensure fair prices, access to credit, insurance, irrigation and support through schemes such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi.

The President said millions of people have been lifted out of poverty through welfare measures, including PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, which supports nearly 81 crore beneficiaries, and housing schemes that have provided over four crore pucca houses to poor families.

Highlighting the role of youth, she said India’s young population is driving entrepreneurship, innovation and global competitiveness. She cited initiatives such as MY Bharat and the country’s vibrant startup ecosystem as key drivers of future growth and expressed confidence that youth will play a leading role in achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.

On the economy, President Murmu said India remains the world’s fastest-growing major economy and is moving towards becoming the third-largest economy. She highlighted investments in infrastructure, GST reforms, labour codes and the focus on Atmanirbharta and Swadeshi to strengthen economic integration and growth.

She also underlined India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, noting the global acceptance of Yoga and Ayurveda, and highlighted efforts such as the Gyan Bharatam Mission to preserve and disseminate India’s vast manuscript and knowledge traditions.

Referring to governance reforms, the President said steps have been taken to simplify rules, reduce compliance burdens and promote ease of living through technology and good governance based on trust.

On national security, she referred to Operation Sindoor and said India’s growing self-reliance in defence has strengthened the country’s preparedness. She also highlighted the capabilities of the armed forces and indigenously built platforms such as INS Vikrant.

The President emphasised environmental protection and India’s leadership on the global message of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), calling for harmony with nature to protect resources for future generations.

Concluding her address, President Murmu called on citizens to work together with the spirit of “Nation First” to make the Republic stronger and more prosperous. She extended Republic Day greetings and wished citizens peace, security and harmony, ending her address with “Jai Hind” and “Jai Bharat.”