New Delhi: In her address to a joint sitting of Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu described the Emergency imposed in 1975 as the biggest attack and a blot on the Constitution of India. This marked her first address to Parliament following the recent general election that elected a new Lok Sabha.
In her Thursday address, President Murmu congratulated the newly elected MPs and emphasized India’s initiatives as a ‘Vishwa Bandhu’ to solve global problems. She highlighted that a stable government with a complete majority has been formed in the country after six decades, reflecting the trust the people have placed in this administration for the third time.
Trust in Government
“People have shown trust in this government for the third time. They are aware that only this government can fulfill their aspirations,” President Murmu said. She noted that the 18th Lok Sabha is historic, formed in the early years of Amrit Kaal and set to witness the 56th year of the adoption of the Constitution. She announced that the upcoming sessions would see the government present its first budget of the term, which will be an effective document of far-reaching policies and futuristic vision.
Economic Achievements
President Murmu highlighted India’s rapid economic growth, stating, “The pledge to reform, perform, and transform has made India the fastest-growing economy in the world. In 10 years, India rose from the 11th position to become the 5th largest economy.” She credited this growth to reforms and decisions taken in the national interest over the past decade, despite global challenges like the pandemic and conflicts. She asserted that India now contributes to 15% of global growth and is on track to become the 3rd largest economy.
Support for Farmers
Underlining the government’s support for farmers, President Murmu said, “Our government provided Rs 3.20 lakh crore to farmers under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. Since the beginning of our new term, more than Rs 20,000 crore has been transferred to farmers.” She mentioned a record increase in the MSP for Kharif crops and emphasized the importance of integrating the supply chain of natural farming and related products to meet the growing global demand for organic products.
International Initiatives
President Murmu also celebrated India’s role in global initiatives, noting the worldwide celebration of International Millet Day in 2023 and International Yoga Day. These initiatives, she said, highlight India’s leadership in promoting health and sustainable agriculture practices.
Parliamentary Sessions
Following the President’s address, a motion of thanks will be moved in both Houses of Parliament for discussion. The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha began on Monday, and the Rajya Sabha session started today.
Opposition Reactions
Congress chief and Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge expressed hopes for a substantive speech, distinct from government rhetoric. “We are expecting at least a good speech this year. It should not be a government speech; it should be the President’s address,” Kharge said.
SP chief and MP Akhilesh Yadav acknowledged the tradition of the President’s address, stating, “This is the tradition, and it happens every time. We listen to the President. That is actually the speech of the Government.”
Earlier, Om Birla was re-elected as the Lok Sabha Speaker for the second consecutive term, with the motion moved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and seconded by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, adopted by the House through a voice vote on Wednesday.
