As India gears up to commemorate its 77th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu is set to address the nation this evening at 7 pm. This marks her fourth Republic Day eve speech since assuming office, continuing a tradition that sets the tone for the national celebrations. The address will be broadcast live across multiple platforms to ensure widespread accessibility for citizens throughout the country.
Broadcast Details and Viewing Information
The President's Republic Day eve address will be telecast live on all Doordarshan channels starting at 7 pm. To cater to India's linguistic diversity, the speech will first be delivered in Hindi, followed by an English version. Regional language broadcasts will air from 9.30 pm on Doordarshan's regional channels and Akashvani's regional networks.
Where to Watch and Listen
Murmu's address will be available through multiple mediums:
- Television broadcast on all Doordarshan channels at 7 pm
- Radio broadcast simultaneously on Akashvani (All India Radio)
- Regional language versions on Doordarshan regional channels and Akashvani regional networks at 9.30 pm
- Live streaming on the President's official social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube
- Live streaming on Doordarshan's YouTube channel
This multi-platform approach ensures that citizens across different regions and with varying media preferences can access the President's message.
Themes from Previous Addresses
Looking back at President Murmu's earlier Republic Day eve speeches reveals consistent themes that have characterized her tenure as India's first President from the tribal community.
2025 Address: Focus on Governance Reform
In her speech last year, Murmu spoke extensively about the concept of 'one Nation One Election', asserting that this plan could promote consistency in governance and prevent policy paralysis. She highlighted how such reform could mitigate resource diversion and reduce financial burdens while offering numerous other benefits to the democratic process.
The President also praised the Narendra Modi-led Central government for redefining "the notion of welfare," emphasizing that inclusion remains "the cornerstone of our growth saga."
2024 Address: Emphasis on Social Justice
During her 2024 Republic Day eve address, Murmu underlined social justice as the top priority of the Central government. She stated that "The Modi government has taken numerous initiatives for welfare of SC, ST and marginalised sections. Social justice is the top priority of the Modi government."
The President invoked the words of Dr B R Ambedkar, reminding citizens that "political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy." She stressed the need to strengthen affirmative action as a means of inclusion and urged citizens to reject "tendencies that fuel discord based on perceived social hierarchies."
2023 Address: Unity and Gender Equality
In her first Republic Day eve address as President in 2023, Murmu highlighted how India has thrived as a democratic republic because diverse creeds and languages have not divided the nation, but instead strengthened its unity. She praised the Central government's initiatives for women and the marginalized, asserting that gender equality was no longer a mere slogan.
Reflecting on her experiences, Murmu said: "During my visits to various states, educational institutions and while meeting delegations of various professionals, I am amazed by the confidence of young women. I have no doubt that they are the ones who will do the most to shape tomorrow's India. What miracles cannot be achieved if this half of the population is encouraged to contribute to nation-building?"
Anticipating Today's Address
As President Murmu prepares to deliver her fourth Republic Day eve address, expectations are high for a speech that will likely build upon her previous themes of governance reform, social justice, national unity, and gender equality. Her unique perspective as India's first tribal community President brings distinctive insights to these national conversations.
The broadcast arrangements demonstrate the government's commitment to ensuring that this important national message reaches every corner of the country through traditional and digital media platforms. As citizens tune in at 7 pm today, they will hear not just a Republic Day eve address, but a reflection of India's democratic journey and aspirations for the future.
