Constitution, foundation of India's collective identity: Prez Murmu in Republic Day address to nation
Mail This Article
New Delhi: In her address to the nation on the eve of the 76th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the Constitution as the cornerstone of India's collective identity and progress. She emphasised the significance of inclusive growth, legal reforms, and national initiatives aimed at fostering equity and governance excellence.
"The 75 years of the Constitution are marked by an all-round progress of a young republic," she said. Speaking on financial inclusion, she said that "the government continues to assign top priority to initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, MUDRA, Stand-Up India and Atal Pension Yojana have been expanded to provide more people access to a variety of financial support schemes".
President Murmu also advocated the "One Nation One Election" initiative, describing it as a transformative measure for enhancing governance. She highlighted its potential to ensure policy consistency, prevent resource diversion, reduce financial strain, and mitigate policy paralysis, reported PTI.
The president "reflected on the increasing confidence levels" of the country in the arena of sports. "Last year, our athletes made a mark in the Olympic Games. In the Paralympic Games, we sent our largest-ever contingent, who came back with our best-ever performance. Our chess champions impressed the world, as our men and women won the gold at the FIDE Chess Olympiad. The achievements in the sports during the year 2024 were capped by D. Gukesh, who became the youngest World Chess Champion," she said.
The President recalled the efforts to eliminate the remnants of colonial influence, citing the replacement of outdated British-era criminal laws with modern legislation tailored to India's traditions and priorities. She praised the introduction of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, which emphasise justice delivery, particularly for crimes against women and children, over punitive measures.
Murmu reiterated the importance of synchronised elections for better governance and reduced costs. She remarked that such reforms require bold vision and determination.
Reflecting on India's journey since independence, President Murmu noted that the Constitution has been a guiding force in transforming the nation from one battling poverty to a global economic player. Acknowledging the role of farmers, labourers, and entrepreneurs, she credited their contributions for propelling India's consistent economic growth.
She underlined the government's focus on inclusive development, ensuring basic necessities like housing, clean drinking water, and improved healthcare for all.