New Delhi, August 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
President Droupadi Murmu, in her address to the nation on the eve of the 80th Independence Day, called for collective efforts to realise the vision of a developed India by 2047, while highlighting the country’s economic progress, social welfare initiatives and growing global engagement over the past decade.
The President said India had continued to advance rapidly despite global uncertainties, with development being pursued alongside the preservation of its cultural heritage. She urged citizens to work together to make India a global leader and stressed the importance of combining “Vikas and Virasat” — development and heritage.
Highlighting the government’s focus on infrastructure, Murmu said major investments in infrastructure had helped attract investors and generate employment. She also pointed to India’s free trade agreements with other countries as part of its expanding economic engagement with the world.
The President placed particular emphasis on the role of young people in shaping India’s future. She noted that 65 per cent of the country’s population is below the age of 35 and said the startup ecosystem had been driven by the energy and innovation of the youth.
Referring to welfare and financial inclusion, Murmu said more than 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty. She said nearly 59 crore people had been brought into the banking system through the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, including more than 32 crore women.
The President also highlighted measures aimed at empowering women, including the women’s reservation law, saying greater participation of women in politics would further strengthen democracy. She also referred to the achievements of Indian women and girls, including their gold medal performances at the Commonwealth Games and their growing presence as fighter pilots.
Addressing concerns among young people over irregularities in examinations, Murmu assured students that the government was working to curb such practices and ensure greater transparency in the examination system.
Recalling the horrors of Partition, she paid tribute to those who suffered during the division of the country and remembered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for his role in integrating more than 500 princely states.
Murmu also underlined the need to protect the environment and conserve natural resources for future generations, stressing that development must remain aligned with environmental responsibility.
Earlier, on the occasion of Parsi New Year, Navroz, the President extended her greetings and best wishes to Parsi citizens in India and abroad.
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