President Droupadi Murmu's Republic Day 2026 Address: A Vision for Women-Led Development and Viksit Bharat
On the occasion of India's 77th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu delivered a powerful and inspiring speech from New Delhi, emphasizing the central role of women in shaping the nation's future. In her address, she highlighted key legislative measures and national achievements, setting a forward-looking agenda for inclusive growth and development.
Celebrating Constitutional Ideals and National Unity
President Murmu began by extending heartfelt greetings to all citizens, both in India and overseas, on this National Festival. She reflected on the significance of Republic Day as an opportunity to assess the country's progress and direction. "Since 26th January, 1950, we have been propelling our Republic towards our constitutional ideals," she stated, underscoring the foundational importance of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution.
She paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Lauh Purush, for unifying the nation, noting the recent celebrations of his 150th birth anniversary. The President also highlighted the ongoing commemorations of the 150th year of the national song "Vande Mataram," composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, and its translations across Indian languages, which have strengthened patriotic fervor.
Empowering Nari Shakti for Viksit Bharat
A major focus of the speech was on women's empowerment. President Murmu asserted that women's participation is crucial to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. She pointed to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam as a landmark legislation that will elevate women's political empowerment to new heights and provide unprecedented momentum to women-led development.
"The role of Nari Shakti will be crucial in the making of Viksit Bharat," she declared, adding that increasing contributions by women will set an example of an inclusive Republic based on gender equality. The President cited impressive statistics: nearly 46% women representatives in Panchayati Raj institutions, over 10 crore women in self-help groups, and success stories in fields from agriculture to space and sports.
National Achievements and Inclusive Welfare Schemes
President Murmu outlined various government initiatives aimed at uplifting underprivileged segments. She mentioned:
- The PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, benefiting nearly 81 crore people, ensuring no one goes hungry.
- Construction of over 4 crore pucca houses with basic amenities for poor families.
- The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, with over 6 crore screenings conducted.
- Empowerment of tribal communities through campaigns like Adi Karmayogi and PM-JANMAN Yojana.
She also praised farmers as the backbone of the economy, noting initiatives like the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi to support them with fair prices, loans, and modern agricultural practices.
Youth Power and Economic Growth
Highlighting India's demographic dividend, President Murmu expressed confidence in the youth to lead the nation towards Viksit Bharat by 2047. She mentioned the Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) platform for experiential learning and skill development, and the success of startups driven by young entrepreneurs.
On the economic front, she noted India's status as the world's fastest-growing major economy, moving towards becoming the third-largest. Key reforms like the implementation of GST and four Labour Codes were highlighted as steps strengthening economic integration and development.
Cultural Heritage and Environmental Stewardship
The President emphasized preserving India's rich traditions, including Ayurveda, Yoga, and spiritual practices. Efforts like the Gyan Bharatam Mission to disseminate Indian knowledge and making the Constitution available in all scheduled languages were praised for fostering constitutional nationalism.
She also addressed environmental priorities, noting India's leadership in promoting the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) initiative. In the realm of defence, she referenced Operation Sindoor as a testament to self-reliance and the preparedness of the armed forces.
A Call to Action for National Progress
Concluding her speech, President Murmu called on all citizens to work together with the spirit of "Nation First." She reiterated that building Viksit Bharat is a shared responsibility, achievable through public participation and societal support. "Let us all work together to make our Republic even more glorious," she urged, ending with greetings of Jai Hind and Jai Bharat.
