New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) In her address to the nation on the eve of Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu commended Operation Sindoor, asserting that the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity embedded in our Constitution are the essence of our Republic.

Characterizing the Constitution as the guiding document of the world’s largest republic, she stated, “Since January 26, 1950, we have been advancing our Republic towards our constitutional ideals.”

The President also acknowledged the courage displayed by the Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor last year.

“Our nation executed precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure via Operation Sindoor. Terror hubs were obliterated, and numerous terrorists faced their demise. Our self-sufficiency in defense significantly contributed to the historic success of Operation Sindoor,” she remarked.

Shifting the focus to economic matters, she noted, “India is currently the fastest-growing major economy globally. In spite of worldwide uncertainties, India continues to experience economic growth. We are on the path to achieving our ambition of becoming the world’s third-largest economy shortly.”

The President also reflected on the 150th anniversary celebrations of ‘Vande Mataram’ and the tributes paid to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

Advocating for unity, she referenced Sree Narayana Guru, a social reformer from Kerala, emphasizing that an ideal society is one where everyone coexists in a spirit of fraternity, devoid of caste and creed discrimination.

The President praised the milestones achieved by women in the nation’s developmental journey and the reinforcement of democracy.

“National initiatives aimed at their health, education, safety, and economic empowerment have boosted women’s participation across various sectors. The ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign has fostered the education of girls. Under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana’, over 57 crore bank accounts have been established, with nearly 56 percent belonging to women,” she stated.

She also appreciated the contributions of farmers, sanitation workers, scientists, doctors, military personnel, police, entrepreneurs, and youth in furthering national development.

The President highlighted the flagship welfare initiatives of the Modi government, including programs for poverty alleviation, free rations, and housing.

She mentioned that the gap between the government and the populace is consistently narrowing.

“Good governance based on mutual trust is being emphasized. Many redundant regulations have been abolished, compliance requirements streamlined, and systems simplified for the public's benefit. Technology is linking beneficiaries directly to services. The focus is on ‘Ease of Living’ to enhance daily life,” she said.

Calling for collective public support for national development, she stated, “Building Viksit Bharat is a shared duty of all citizens. Society possesses immense power. Transformational changes occur when governmental efforts receive active societal backing.”

For instance, our citizens have embraced digital payment systems extensively. Today, more than half of the world's digital transactions occur in India, she noted.

Emphasizing youth talent, the President remarked that young people are establishing a global identity and achieving remarkable job creation.

“The success of start-ups in our nation is credited to the youth. I am confident that they will play a significant role in constructing Viksit India by 2047,” she expressed.

The President also commended the government’s economic policies, asserting that the nation is steadfastly progressing toward becoming the third-largest economy, with a focus on infrastructure, investment, and Swadeshi.

She remarked, “Recent measures to enhance the GST framework will further fortify our economy. Four Labour Codes have been introduced as part of labor reforms.”

Stressing the commitment to environmental conservation, she concluded, “Protecting the environment is a top priority today. I am proud that India has guided the global community in numerous environmental initiatives.”

The annual address by the President on the eve of Republic Day is a tradition that traces back to the inception of the Republic of India. It serves as a moment of introspection regarding the nation's journey, achievements, and challenges, while setting the tone for the January 26 celebrations.