THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

NEW DELHI, JANUARY 25, 2026

Placing the spirit of ‘Nation First’ at the heart of India’s journey towards a developed nation, the President of India Droupadi Murmu urged citizens to work together with unity, responsibility and pride to make the Republic stronger and more inclusive, in her address to the nation on the eve of the 77th Republic Day.

Extending warm greetings to Indians at home and abroad, the President said Republic Day is not only a moment of celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the country’s past achievements, present progress and future direction. Recalling the historic milestones of August 15, 1947 and January 26, 1950, she noted that India’s freedom struggle and the adoption of the Constitution transformed the nation into the world’s largest democratic republic, founded on the ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.

Highlighting the unifying role of national icons, the President remembered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s contribution to national integration and said the celebrations marking his 150th birth anniversary had strengthened the spirit of unity and pride. She also referred to the 150 years of the composition of ‘Vande Mataram’, describing it as India’s lyrical national prayer that continues to inspire patriotism across languages and regions. Paying tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on *Parakram Diwas*, she said his slogan ‘Jai Hind’ remains a powerful declaration of national pride.

The President lauded the collective efforts of citizens from all walks of life — soldiers guarding the borders, farmers feeding the nation, women breaking barriers, healthcare and sanitation workers serving society, teachers shaping minds, scientists and engineers driving development, entrepreneurs building self-reliance, artists enriching culture and youth strengthening faith in the future. She also acknowledged the contribution of the Indian diaspora in enhancing India’s global image.

Referring to National Voters’ Day, she emphasised the importance of informed and enthusiastic participation in the democratic process, noting that increasing women’s participation in voting has added a powerful dimension to the Republic. Underscoring women-led development, the President highlighted initiatives such as ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’, financial inclusion through Jan Dhan accounts and the growing role of women in self-help groups, governance, sports, science and defence. She said the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ would further strengthen political empowerment and play a crucial role in building Viksit Bharat.

The President also spoke about inclusive growth for tribal communities, farmers and the poor, citing focused efforts in health, education, housing, food security and livelihood generation. She said schemes inspired by Antyodaya and Sarvodaya were giving millions a dignified life and new opportunities for progress.

Highlighting India’s demographic strength, she described the youth as the flag bearers of development and expressed confidence that programmes like ‘MY Bharat’ and the start-up ecosystem would help realise the goal of a developed India by 2047. She noted that despite global uncertainties, India remains the fastest-growing major economy, guided by Atmanirbharata, infrastructure expansion and reforms such as GST.

The President reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace, environmental protection and a lifestyle in harmony with nature, while expressing pride in the country’s defence preparedness and self-reliance.

Concluding her address, she called upon citizens to deepen their sense of patriotism, uphold constitutional values and collectively work to make the Republic more glorious.