• Source:JND
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President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation on the eve of the 78th Independence Day. In her speech, she asserted that social justice in the top priority of the government, that the spirit of inclusion pervades every aspect of social life in India, and that "affirmative action must be strengthened as an instrument of inclusion". She also said that India has been among the fastest-growing major economies, with an average growth rate of 8 percent annually from 2021 to 2024. 

"This has not only put more money in the hands of people, it has also drastically reduced the number of people living below the poverty line. As for those who continue to suffer from poverty, all efforts are being made not only to provide a helping hand to them, but also to bring them out of it," she said.

President Murmu noted that the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana, which was launched in the initial phase of Covid-19, continues to provide free rations to about 80 crore people, which also ensures that those who have recently come out of poverty are not forced back into it. Speaking about the Indian economy, she said that India has become the fifth-largest economy in the world and is poised to become one of the top three economies soon.

"This has been made possible only by tireless hard work of farmers and workers, by the farsightedness of planners and wealth-creators, and by the visionary leadership. Farmers, our Annadata, have ensured that agricultural production continues to beat expectations. With this, they have contributed immensely to making India self-reliant in agriculture and feed our people."

President Murmu mentioned infrastructure in her speech and said that in  recent years, strategic planning and effective institutions have helped expand the network of roads and highways, railways, and ports.

"Speaking of justice, let me also mention here that in adopting the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita from July this year, we have removed one more relic of the colonial era. The new code is oriented towards ensuring justice for the victims of crime instead of focusing on punishment alone. I see this change as a tribute to the freedom fighters," President Murmu said.

"Considering the great potential of futuristic technology, the government has vigorously promoted a range of sectors, such as semiconductors and Artificial Intelligence, while also creating an ideal ecosystem for startups which will propel their growth. It has made India an even more attractive investment destination," she said.

"With greater transparency, the banking and financial sector has become much more efficient. All of these factors have set the stage for the next generation of economic reforms and economic growth that will catapult India among the developed nations," she added.

President Murmu also congratulated the Election Commission of India for the smooth and flawless conduct of the Lok Sabha polls. 

"I thank all officials and security personnel who braved the heat and helped electors. When such a large number of people exercise their franchise, it is a resounding vote for the idea of democracy. India’s successful conduct of elections strengthens democratic forces around the world," she said.

Mentioning agricultural production, she said that farmers have continued to beat expectations. 

Speaking about Babasaheb Ambedkar, President Murmu said he  had rightly said, and I quote, “We must make our political democracy a social democracy as well. Political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy.”

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