Republic Day Eve: President Murmu calls for unity, women-led growth and Viksit Bharat

President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday called upon citizens to strengthen the spirit of unity, gender equality and inclusive development, while reaffirming India’s resolve to become a developed nation by 2047.

In her address to the nation on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, the President said there was “nothing greater than strengthening our vibrant republic” through the collective efforts of soldiers, farmers, workers, women, youth, scientists, teachers and entrepreneurs.

Highlighting the ideals of the Constitution, she said justice, liberty, equality and fraternity continued to guide the world’s largest democracy, adding that India had moved steadily towards its constitutional goals since January 26, 1950.

The President paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the creators of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’, saying their legacy continued to inspire national unity and pride.

Emphasising women-led development, she noted the growing role of women in governance, self-help groups, sports, science and defence, and said the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam would give unprecedented strength to women’s political empowerment.

She said India was the world’s fastest-growing major economy and was moving towards becoming the third-largest economy, supported by infrastructure expansion, GST reforms and labour codes.

Referring to youth and start-ups, President Murmu said young Indians would play a decisive role in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

She also underlined India’s defence preparedness, environmental leadership, digital payments revolution and commitment to world peace.

Concluding her address, the President urged citizens to work with the spirit of “Nation First” to make the Republic more glorious, and extended Republic Day greetings to people in India and abroad.