New Delhi: On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu delivered a stirring address to the nation, celebrating India’s strides toward self-reliance while hailing Operation Sindoor as a historic stand against terrorism.
In a speech that blended pride in India’s progress with a sombre nod to its past, she called for unity and resolve, urging citizens to honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters and the victims of partition. From economic growth to women’s empowerment, her words painted a picture of a nation on the move, yet ever vigilant against threats.
A Defiant Response To Terror
President Murmu didn’t mince words when addressing the shadow of terrorism that loomed over India this year. She called the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians in Kashmir, “cowardly and utterly inhuman.” But India’s response, she said, was anything but weak. “Operation Sindoor showed our armed forces are ready to tackle any threat to the nation,” she declared. Launched on May 7, the operation saw Indian forces, with strategic precision and advanced technology, obliterate terrorist hubs across the border in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, eliminating over 100 terrorists. “This will go down in history as a landmark in humanity’s fight against terrorism,” Murmu said, emphasising India’s stance: “We will not start conflicts, but we won’t hesitate to retaliate to protect our people.”
The operation also showcased India’s growing self-reliance in defence, a point Murmu highlighted with pride. “Operation Sindoor was a testament to the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission. Our indigenous manufacturing has reached a level where we can meet many of our security needs,” she said, marking it as a turning point in India’s defence history.
Reflecting On Partition’s Pain
Murmu’s address took a poignant turn as she reflected on the scars of 1947. “We must never forget the pain of Partition,” she said, noting that August 14 was observed as Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas. The violence and displacement of millions during that time remain a stark reminder of history’s mistakes. “Today, we pay tribute to those who suffered,” she added, her words carrying a call for unity in the face of past divisions.
A Nation On The Rise
The President painted an optimistic picture of India’s progress since Independence. “From utter poverty in 1947, we’ve made extraordinary strides,” she said. With a GDP growth rate of 6.5% last year, India stands as the world’s fastest-growing major economy. “Despite global economic stress, our domestic demand is strong, inflation is in check, and exports are rising,” she noted, crediting smart reforms and the hard work of farmers and workers.
Good governance has lifted millions out of poverty, with welfare programmes ensuring those just above the poverty line don’t slip back. “Income and regional disparities are shrinking,” Murmu said, pointing to lagging states now catching up with leaders. Infrastructure has been a game-changer, with the Bharatmala Pariyojana expanding highways and the Railways introducing modern trains. The Kashmir Valley’s new rail link, which she called a “historic milestone”, will boost trade and tourism.
Empowering Cities, Homes, And Lives
Urbanisation is reshaping India, and Murmu highlighted the government’s focus on cities. Metro rail networks have grown manifold in a decade, while the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) has brought tap water and sewerage to more homes. The Jal Jeevan Mission is steadily piping water to rural households. In healthcare, Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health scheme, now covers over 55 crore people, including all seniors above 70, regardless of income. “This is about dignity— ensuring the poor and middle class get the best care,” she said.
Digital Leap And AI Ambitions
India’s digital revolution got a special mention. With nearly all villages connected to 4G, India handles over half the world’s digital transactions, leading in digital payments and Direct Benefit Transfers. “This vibrant digital economy is boosting our GDP,” Murmu said. Looking ahead, she spotlighted the India-AI Mission, aiming to make India a global AI hub by 2047. “AI is the next frontier, and we’re building models tailored to India’s needs to improve lives through better governance,” she added.
Youth, Women, And The Marginalised Lead The Way
Murmu reserved special praise for three groups driving India’s future: youth, women, and marginalised communities. The National Education Policy has aligned learning with values and skills, creating opportunities for young dreamers. She highlighted Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission to the International Space Station, calling it a spark for a generation to aim higher, especially for the Gaganyaan programme. In sports, India’s youth are shining, with chess now dominated by young stars.
Women, she said, are breaking barriers everywhere, from defence to sports. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam has turned empowerment into reality, narrowing the gender gap. She also celebrated the rise of Scheduled Castes, Tribes, and Backward Classes, who are shedding marginalisation to chase their dreams.
Swadeshi And A Vision For 2047
Echoing Mahatma Gandhi’s Swadeshi spirit, Murmu urged citizens to embrace Indian products, tying it to initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. “National Handloom Day on August 7 reminded us of our artisans’ skills,” she said. With the Amrit Kaal underway, she sees India becoming a developed nation by 2047, driven by inclusive growth and self-reliance.
Murmu’s speech was a rallying cry for a united, forward-looking India. Operation Sindoor, she said, wasn’t just a military win but a symbol of national unity, with MPs from all parties explaining India’s stance globally. “Our unity is our strongest answer to those who seek to divide us,” she said, leaving no doubt that India’s resolve — against terrorism or any challenge — remains unbreakable.