Prez Murmu calls for inclusive growth, youth power and sustainable development on eve of 80th I-Day

Highlights Viksit Bharat 2047, women-led development, digital transformation, environmental protection and national security

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu, in her address to the nation on the eve of the 80th Independence Day, called for collective efforts to build a developed, inclusive and self-reliant India by 2047, stressing that the real objective of development is to improve the wellbeing and opportunities of every citizen.

The President said India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat by 2047 must be guided by the spirit of Antyodaya, ensuring that the benefits of development reach every individual. She underlined the importance of combining the country’s rich cultural heritage with modern development while recognising the contribution of farmers, workers, scientists, teachers, healthcare professionals, sportspersons, entrepreneurs, security personnel and other citizens to nation-building.

A significant part of the address focused on social justice and inclusive development. Referring to the 200th birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, President Murmu highlighted progress in poverty reduction, financial inclusion, food security and healthcare. She said more than 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty, while nearly 59 crore people had joined the banking system under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, including more than 32 crore women.

The President also placed women’s empowerment at the centre of India’s development story. She noted that more than 10 crore women are members of Self Help Groups and that the target of creating three crore Lakhpati Didis has been achieved. The country, she said, is now moving towards creating another three crore Lakhpati Didis. She also highlighted the growing participation of women in diverse sectors and referred to the 33 per cent reservation provided for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies through the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

With 65 per cent of India’s population below the age of 35, President Murmu described youth as the country’s most valuable asset. She highlighted the growing culture of entrepreneurship and job creation among young Indians, along with their contribution to innovation, technology and the start-up ecosystem. She also stressed the need to make public examinations more transparent, secure and trustworthy by curbing unfair means.

The President linked youth development closely with sports, education and wellbeing, saying sports are increasingly being used as a means of youth development and nation-building. She pointed to investments under the Khelo India programme and the improving performance of Indian sportspersons in international competitions.

On the economic front, President Murmu said India continues to move ahead despite global warfare and instability. She described the country as the fastest-growing major economy and said the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative has strengthened the foundations of economic progress and national security. She also highlighted the expansion of highways, waterways, railways and airways and the role of modern infrastructure in creating employment and investment opportunities.

Digital transformation and green development also featured prominently in the address. The President said India has developed the world’s largest and best digital infrastructure, with digital payments becoming common even among rural shops and street vendors. She also emphasised India’s progress in renewable energy and called for greater responsibility towards natural resources so that future generations inherit a healthy and prosperous environment.

On national security, the President paid tribute to the Armed Forces and recalled Kargil Vijay Diwas and Operation Sindoor, saying the latter demonstrated India’s ability to respond to terrorism with precision. She also described the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with a country that harbours terrorism as a decisive step in the national interest, particularly for farmers.

The address also carried a message of social harmony and remembrance. Observing August 14 as Vibhajan Vibheeshika Smriti Divas, President Murmu remembered those who lost their lives or were displaced during Partition. She also paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for integrating more than 550 princely states into independent India.

Calling for continued public participation in democracy, the President said development and national progress cannot be achieved by the government alone. She concluded with a vision of an India where people in every village, town and household become healthier, happier and prosperous, urging citizens to dedicate themselves to transforming Swatantra Bharat into Viksit Bharat.