ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SMT. DROUPADI MURMU TO PARLIAMENT

Honourable Members,

1. It gives me immense pleasure to address both Houses of the Parliament assembled together. The previous year has been memorable for celebrating India’s rapid development and its rich heritage. This period has brought many inspirations with it. At present, India is celebrating 150 years of Vande Mataram. The people of India are paying homage to Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay for this profound source of inspiration. I congratulate the Honourable Members that a special discussion in Parliament was organised on this auspicious occasion.

Honourable Members,

2. During this period, the citizens commemorated the 350th anniversary of martyrdom of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji with deep reverence. During the 150th birth anniversary year of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the nation paid tributes to him and remembered the contributions of the tribal community. The events associated with the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel have strengthened the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. All citizens also witnessed that the birth centenary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika were imbued with melodies and the spirit of national unity.

When the citizens recall such great milestones of their glorious past and the remarkable contributions of their ancestors, it inspires the new generation. This inspiration further accelerates the nation’s journey towards ‘Viksit Bharat’.

Honourable Members,

3. With the onset of the year 2026, the country has moved into the second phase of this century. For India, the completion of the first 25 years of this century has been marked by numerous successes, glorious achievements, and extraordinary experiences. Over the past 10–11 years, India has strengthened its foundation in every sphere. This period has become a strong cornerstone for India’s rapid journey towards becoming ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.

Honourable Members,

4. Baba Saheb Ambedkar always laid emphasis on equality and social justice. Our Constitution also inspires us in the same spirit. Social justice means every citizen gets to exercise full rights, and without any discrimination. My government is fully committed to social justice in its true sense. As a result of this, 25 crore citizens have overcome poverty during the last decade. During the third term of my government, the campaign to empower the poor has moved forward with greater momentum.

• During the last decade, four crore pucca houses have been built for the poor. Possession of 32 lakh new houses has been given to the poor during the last year.

• During the five years of Jal Jeevan Mission, 12.5 crore new households have been provided piped water. During the last year, tap water connections have reached about one crore new households.

• Through the Ujjwala Yojana, till date, more than 10 crore households have been provided with LPG connections, and this campaign has progressed at a rapid pace during the last year.

• My government is institutionalizing transparency and honesty in systems. In the last one year, my government has provided benefits worth more than 6.75 lakh crore rupees directly to the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer.

Honourable Members,

5. My government is working with full sensitivity for all - for Dalits, backward classes, marginalized and tribal communities. The vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas is bringing positive change in the lives of all citizens of the country. At the beginning of 2014, social security schemes could reach only 25 crore citizens. With continuous efforts of my government, about 95 crore Indians have social security cover today.

• Under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana started for the poor patients, more than 11 crore free medical treatments have been given in the hospitals across the country till last year. During the last year alone, 2.5 crore poor patients have received free medical treatment under this scheme.

• During the last almost one and half years, Vay Vandana Cards have been issued to approximately one crore senior citizens. With the help of these cards, nearly 8 lakh senior citizens have received free treatment as in- patients in hospitals.

• Today, with the help of 1 lakh 80 thousand Ayushman Arogya Mandirs set up across the country, patients are assured of receiving medical treatment closer to their homes.

My government has fought a decisive battle against major diseases. Screening of more than 6.5 crore citizens has been done under the Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission. This has helped in controlling this disease in several tribal areas.

Campaigns carried out in mission mode have led to effective control over diseases such as Japanese Encephalitis. In many less-developed and rural areas of Uttar Pradesh, effective prevention of this disease has been ensured.

It is a matter of pride that the World Health Organization has declared India free from the eye-disease Trachoma.

My government is also committed to providing insurance cover to every citizen. The Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana have a crucial role in this effort. Through these schemes, crores of citizens who need support have received insurance coverage. Under these schemes, claims exceeding 24 thousand crore rupees have also been disbursed. These schemes have provided help to crores of poor people in crisis situations.

Honourable Members,

6. I feel a sense of satisfaction to see that the youth, farmers, workers, and entrepreneurs of our country are continuously expanding their role towards building Viksit Bharat. The encouraging statistics of the last year testify to this.

• In the last year, India has achieved a record production of over 350 million tonnes of food grains.

• With a production of 150 million tonnes, India has become the largest rice- producing country in the world.

• Our country has also become the second-largest fish-producer globally. It reflects the nation’s success in the Blue Economy.

• In the field of milk production as well, India is known as the most successful country in the world. This is the result of the strength of cooperative movement.

• The country’s manufacturing sector has also shown record growth during this period. In a field like that of mobile manufacturing, India has now become the second-largest country in the world. In the first five months of 2025–26, India’s smartphone export has crossed 1 lakh crore rupees. This year, India has started exporting electric vehicles to more than 100 countries.

Honourable Members,

7. My government is becoming successful in building a system free from corruption and scams. As a result, every single rupee of the taxpayers is being spent on the development and welfare of the country. Today, India is making unprecedented investment in modern infrastructure. India’s rapid progress across land, sea, and air is now a topic of global discussion.

• The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana was launched during the tenure of Atal Ji. During the last one year, India has added approximately 18 thousand kilometres of new rural roads. Now, almost the entire rural population of India is connected by road.

• The Indian Railways, serving the poor and middle class, is rapidly moving towards achieving the target of 100% electrification.

• Aizawl in Mizoram and New Delhi have been connected by direct rail route. Last year, when the Rajdhani Express arrived for the first time at Aizawl railway station, the enthusiasm shown by the local people brought joy to the entire nation.

• India has achieved a historic milestone in the field of infrastructure by building the world’s highest railway arch bridge, Chenab Bridge, in Jammu and Kashmir, and the new Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu.

• Today, from Jammu and Kashmir to Kerala, a network of more than 150 Vande Bharat trains has been established.

• Just a few days ago, a new generation of Vande Bharat trains has been inducted. Introduction of Vande Bharat sleeper trains between Bengal and Assam is a new achievement in the progress of Railways in India.

• Citizens are also proud of India’s metro network. In 2025, India’s total metro network has crossed the historic mark of one thousand kilometres. Now India has the third-largest metro network in the world.

• My government has also undertaken several steps for the development of inland waterways. Earlier, India had only five national waterways, which have now crossed the mark of 100. With this, states in Eastern India, including Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, and Bihar, are emerging as logistics hubs.

• Cruise tourism is leading to an increase in tourism in the areas near rivers and coasts, thereby strengthening the local economies.

Honourable Members,

8. Now, space tourism is also not beyond India’s reach. The visit of India’s young astronaut, Shubhanshu Shukla, to the International Space Station marks the beginning of a historic journey. In the coming years, our country will move ahead towards establishing an Indian station in space. The nation is also enthusiastically working on the Gaganyaan Mission.

Honourable Members,

9. To accelerate the projects pending for decades and for providing benefits of schemes to each beneficiary, my government launched a new initiative named ‘PRAGATI’. In December 2025, the historic milestone of the 50th meeting of PRAGATI was also achieved. Over the years, PRAGATI has accelerated projects worth over 85 lakh crore rupees and helped in implementing welfare schemes worth lakhs of crores of rupees on the ground. The success of the country’s mantra of Reform-Perform- Transform has been greatly aided by these PRAGATI meetings.

Honourable Members,

10. Over the past 11 years, the economic foundation of the country has grown significantly stronger. Despite various global crises, India has remained the fastest growing major economy in the world. India has further improved its record in keeping inflation under control. It is directly benefiting the poor and middle-class families of the country. As a result of the policies of my government, the income of citizens has increased, their savings have grown, and their purchasing power has also improved.

I congratulate all citizens on the conclusion of negotiations for a free trade agreement with the European Union. It will give impetus to the manufacturing and service sectors in India and also create new employment opportunities for the youth of India.

Honourable Members,

11. Today, my government is moving forward on the path of ‘Reforms Express’. Old rules and provisions are being updated continuously according to future needs.

Everyone has witnessed how the historic next-generation reform in GST filled the citizens with enthusiasm. This reform ensured savings of one lakh crore rupees for citizens. Following the reduction in GST, in 2025, registrations of two-wheelers have crossed the mark of two crore, which is a new record in itself.

The Income Tax law has also been revamped. A historic decision has been taken to exempt income up to 12 lakh rupees from taxation. These reforms are providing unprecedented benefits to poor and middle-class families. It has also given a new impetus to the country’s economy. Honourable Members,

12. With the emergence of many new sectors in the country, it is equally important to safeguard the interests of workers. This is also the primary objective behind the implementation of the new labour laws. For a long time, the country’s workforce was entangled in dozens of labour laws. These have now been consolidated into just four Codes, making it easier for workers to receive fair wages and allowances and other welfare benefits. From these reforms, the country’s youth and women in particular, will benefit significantly.

Honourable Members,

13. My government is engaged in making India a powerhouse of green growth and modern technology. Investments are increasing in the rapidly growing digital economy, Artificial Intelligence, and data centres. This new form of economy also has greater energy requirements. Nuclear energy has a major role to play in this direction. The recently enacted SHANTI Act will help achieve the target of 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy by 2047. I commend all of you for this historic reform.

Apart from nuclear energy, India is advancing rapidly in the solar power sector. Through the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, common consumers are now becoming producers of electricity. So far, nearly 20 lakh rooftop solar systems have been installed. This has resulted in increased electricity generation and reduced electricity bills for lakhs of households. With all these efforts, India will definitely achieve the target of 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by the end of this decade. Honourable Members,

14. The true success of any justice system is measured by its ability to instil a sense of security, ease and empowerment, rather than fear, among the citizens. Keeping this principle in mind, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita is being implemented expeditiously. In addition, a new version of the Jan- Vishwas Act has been introduced. So far, more than 300 provisions have been removed from the category of criminal offenses.

To fulfil the vision of Viksit Bharat, my government will continue to accelerate the momentum of this Reforms Express.

Honourable Members,

15. After independence, the progress of India got momentum from a few cities and regions. A large part of India and a significant portion of population did not have access to adequate opportunities. Today, my government is transforming the potential of under-developed regions and marginalized populations into the driving force for Viksit Bharat.

Special emphasis is now being given to Purvodaya, that is, rapid development of Eastern India. Today, new avenues of progress are emerging in the maritime regions of West Bengal and Odisha. Now, the North Eastern region is also integrating with the mainstream of development. Assam in the North-Eastern region is the land of great icons like Srimanta Sankardev. Soon, a semiconductor chip manufactured in Assam will become a lifeline for electronic products worldwide. Unprecedented attention is also being given to improving connectivity in this region.

Honourable Members,

16. During the last 11 years, more than 7,200 kilometres of National Highways have been built in the North-Eastern region. This has made it easier to reach remote, hilly, tribal, and border areas.

Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, approximately 50 thousand kilometres of rural roads have been built. It has improved access to markets, hospitals, and schools. More than 80 thousand crore rupees have been invested for the development of railways in the North Eastern region during the last 11 years. The capitals of Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and Mizoram have now been connected through broad- gauge rail lines. This has opened new opportunities for economic progress, employment, and tourism industry in these areas.

This decade has also been a decade of initiatives for ensuring health facilities in the North East. The establishment of the State Cancer Institute in Itanagar and medical college in Sivasagar in Assam will help provide treatment to crores of families.

Similarly, establishment of medical college in Sikkim’s Sichey and a hospital for women and children in Agartala will greatly enhance healthcare facilities. Such efforts are creating a robust health infrastructure in the North Eastern region.

Honourable Members,

17. Those who have been left behind are a priority for my government. The PM JANMAN Scheme is working on this very priority. Under this scheme, over 20 thousand villages of the most deprived communities of tribals are being developed. Approximately 2.5 lakh houses for the poor have been built in these villages through this scheme. Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan is also accelerating development in tribal areas at an unprecedented pace. On these two programs, my government is spending more than one lakh crore rupees.

Over the past 11 years, lakhs of students of Scheduled Caste communities have been granted post-matric scholarships of more than 42 thousand crore rupees. This has benefitted nearly five crore students. The government has also established more than 400 Eklavya Model Residential Schools in tribal areas. These are providing quality education and a better future to tribal children.

Honourable Members,

18. Explaining the importance of agriculture, Sant Thiruvalluvar had said that irrespective of their vocations in society, the life of every individual is dependent on the arduous labour of a hard-working farmer.

In view of this, for my government, a prosperous farmer is its first priority for Viksit Bharat. With this spirit, the government launched a scheme like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. Under this scheme, over 4 lakh crore rupees have been directly transferred to their bank accounts, so far.

My government’s sound policies and initiatives have led to rapid increase in agricultural production in the country. There has been a record production of food grains and horticulture crops in 2024–25. My government is also working for increasing the production of those crops in which our agriculture sector was lagging behind.

The government’s intent is also to reduce imports of agricultural products. Through the National Missions on Edible Oils, Oilseeds, and Pulses, the nation is moving towards self-reliance in these sectors. As a result of this, in 2024–25, the production of oilseed crops has also increased. For providing additional income to farmers, my government continues to promote millets, or Shree-Anna, globally.

Honourable Members,

19. Today, along with foodgrain production, farmers are also being connected to livestock, fisheries, and beekeeping as new avenues of economic progress. A new policy has been formulated for fishermen living along the coastline to provide them the benefits of the Exclusive Economic Zone. Besides, a new policy has also been framed for enabling them in utilizing the resources in the High Seas. In 2024–25, the country’s fish production has increased to approximately 200 lakh tonnes. It reflects a 105 percent increase as compared to 2014.

Honourable Members,

20. My government has also created the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund to modernize the agriculture sector and to establish better logistics facilities. I am pleased to share with you that this initiative has so far attracted private investment of over 1.25 lakh crore rupees. This has also created lakhs of new employment opportunities for the youth. Due to the farsightedness of my government, the country’s food processing capacity has increased twenty-fold, enabling farmers to receive better prices for their crops.

Honourable Members,

21. For employment and development in rural areas, a law named Viksit Bharat G RAM G has been enacted. This new law will ensure 125 days of guaranteed employment in villages. At the same time, it will ensure stopping corruption and leakages, for which my government has been making efforts since long. This scheme will provide new momentum to rural development and create new facilities for the farmers, livestock farmers, and fishermen.

Honourable Members,

22. My government is strengthening the cooperative movement in sectors such as agriculture and livestock. Today, through the Tribhuvan Sahkari University, individuals associated with cooperatives are getting opportunities to learn and move ahead. In addition, the agriculture sector is being empowered through over 10 thousand FPOs.

Honourable Members,

23. My government firmly believes that development of the country is possible only by providing equal opportunities of progress to all citizens. Therefore, the nation is moving ahead today with the mantra of women-led development.

My government has launched special schemes dedicated to women. Women have been placed at the centre of other schemes as well. From Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana to Jal Jeevan Mission, women beneficiaries have been given high priority in every scheme.

To increase women’s participation in national development, my government has connected 10 crore women to Self-Help Groups. Today, the number of “Lakhpati Didi” in the country is more than two crore. In the past year alone, over 60 lakh women have become Lakhpati Didi. The government is soon going to achieve the target of empowering three crore women as Lakhpati Didi.

Honourable Members,

24. In the far-flung regions of the country, the “Namo Drone Didi” initiative has also emerged as a symbol of women empowerment. These trained Drone Didis are now transforming the agriculture sector using modern technology.

Along with economic advancement of women, my government is focusing on all other areas like their nutrition, health, and education. Under the “Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar” campaign launched in September 2025, health checkups of about seven crore women have been done. This campaign has helped women in starting their treatment early.

Honourable Members,

25. As a result of my government’s progressive outlook and policies, women have advanced rapidly in every aspirational sector of the country. In this very direction, the nation has achieved another major milestone just a few months ago. The first batch of women cadets has graduated from the National Defence Academy (NDA). This has strengthened the belief that Nari Shakti stands at the forefront of the nation’s development and empowerment.

Honourable Members,

26. Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji has taught us — “Bhay kahu ko det nay, nay bhay manat aan” — that is, we should neither instil fear in others nor live in fear of others.

It is only with this spirit of fearlessness that the security of the nation can be ensured. India has proved that power can be used with responsibility and prudence. The world has witnessed the valour and prowess of the Indian Defence Forces during Operation Sindoor. Using its own resources our country destroyed the base camps of terrorists. My government sent a strong message that any terrorist attack on India will receive a firm and decisive response. The suspension of the Indus Water Treaty is also a part of India’s fight against terrorism. Mission Sudarshan Chakra is in progress to further strengthen the nation’s defence systems.

Honourable Members,

27. In line with the policy of my government, security forces have also acted decisively against Maoist terror. For years, there has been an atmosphere of insecurity, fear and distrust in 126 districts of the country. Maoist ideology pushed the future of many generations into darkness. Our youth, tribals and Dalit brothers and sisters were among the most affected. Today, the challenge of Maoist terror has been reduced to just eight districts from 126 districts. Out of these, only three districts remain the most-affected. During the last one year, nearly two thousand individuals associated with Maoism have surrendered. This has brought back peace to the lives of lakhs of citizens.

The whole country is witnessing transformation of the areas affected with Maoism. When a bus reached a village of Bijapur after 25 years, villagers celebrated it as a festival. Youth are participating enthusiastically in the Bastar Olympics. People who have laid down arms, are now serving in the Pandum Cafe at Jagdalpur.

Honourable Members,

28. My government is ensuring a normal and dignified life for those who have joined the mainstream of the society after laying down arms. The day is not far, when the country will witness complete eradication of Maoist terror.

Honourable Members,

29. Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore had said that freedom remains incomplete without a life of self-reliance. My government is taking continuous and concrete steps towards making India self-reliant. Today, products made with the vision of “Make in India” are reaching various global markets. There is also great enthusiasm among the citizens for ‘Swadeshi.’

Honourable Members,

30. Under the PLI scheme, investments of about two lakh crore rupees have been attracted, so far. Also, production worth more than 17 lakh crore rupees has been done. India’s electronics sector is developing at an unprecedented pace. Over the past 11 years, electronics production has increased sixfold. Today, it has reached the mark of 11 lakh crore rupees. In 2025, India’s defence production has surpassed 1.5 lakh crore rupees. Defence exports have also crossed the record of 23 thousand crore rupees. After Operation Sindoor, confidence in Made-in-India defence platforms has grown stronger.

Honourable Members,

31. India’s share in global investment and exports has been increasing steadily. Over the past 11 years, India has received an FDI of about 750 billion dollars.

My government is promoting new sectors in India. Self-reliance in making microchips is essential for modern manufacturing and future technologies. In 2025, four more semiconductor manufacturing units have been sanctioned. A total of 10 such factories are going to commence their operations in the near future. India is taking concrete steps for nano-chips manufacturing also.

Honourable Members,

32. Apart from chips, there is another major sector for which my government has started working in mission mode. Through the National Critical Mineral Mission, dependence on other countries for essential minerals is being reduced.

Honourable Members,

33. In the past, India used to be a superpower in maritime trade. However, post colonization, due to decades of neglect, 95 percent of India’s trade is carried on foreign ships today. More than six lakh crore rupees are spent on this annually.

My government is actively engaged in bringing the country out of this situation. My government has announced a historic package of about 70 thousand crore rupees for the shipping sector. Large ships have been granted infrastructure status. Moreover, old maritime laws have also been revamped to meet current requirements.

Honourable Members,

34. Sreenarayana Guru, the great saint of Kerala, said: “Acquire knowledge through education and become powerful through organization”. Because, when a nation dreams, such dreams are envisioned by its youth only, and are also realized by those very youth.

You will be happy to know that in the electronics manufacturing sector alone, over 25 lakh new jobs have been created during the last 11 years. With the enabling policies of my government, many new sectors are also emerging in the country. New employment opportunities are being created in new areas like semiconductors, green energy, and green hydrogen.

Honourable Members,

35. Over the past years, my government has invested more than 50 lakh crore rupees in the development of modern infrastructure. This investment in infrastructure has generated a large number of employment opportunities for the youth.

Honourable Members,

36. Today, we are witnessing another positive transformation in the young minds of India. The youth of the nation is embracing Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Swadeshi, and Make in India as its responsibility.

Initiatives like the Mudra Yojana are fostering the spirit of entrepreneurship and self-employment among these youth. Under this scheme, a fund of over 38 lakh crore rupees has been provided to small entrepreneurs.

About 12 crore loans have been disbursed for first-time self-employment. Similarly, under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, more than 20 lakh artisans across the country are being imparted training and banking support. Under the PM SVANidhi Scheme also, 72 lakh street vendors have received financial assistance amounting to16 thousand crore rupees.

Honourable Members,

37. Recently, the Startup India Program has completed 10 years. In these 10 years, India has become the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. A decade ago, there were fewer than 500 startups in the country. Today, nearly two lakh startups have been registered, out of which about 50 thousand new startups have been registered during the last year only.

Over 20 lakh youth are working in India’s startup network. There is at least one woman director in 45 percent of these startups.

Honourable Members,

38. During the past year, my government has provided permanent jobs to lakhs of youth through various employment fairs. In the private sector also, the Prime Minister Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana has been started with a budget of one lakh crore rupees. Under this scheme, more than 3.5 crore new jobs are being created.

With the efforts of my government, more than one crore youth have also been employed in IT services, electronics manufacturing, and Global Capability Centres.

Honourable Members,

39. In the past year, 4G and 5G network services have reached every corner of the country through more than one lakh mobile towers. The expansion of Digital India has introduced India as a major global hub of creative economy worth thousands of crores. To further accelerate the creative economy, my government has also launched a new platform called WAVES.

Honourable Members,

40. Today, technology is evolving rapidly. As a result of this, the nature of jobs is also changing at a fast pace. Therefore, the National Education Policy has been designed to meet the needs of both, the present and the future. Today, right at the school level, children are being nurtured to have a mindset for technology and innovation. The Atal Innovation Mission is playing an effective role in this. So far, over one crore students across the country have benefitted from Atal Tinkering Labs. Besides, the culture of research and development is also being promoted through Anusandhan National Research Foundation.

Honourable Members,

41. One thousand ITIs are being made future-ready for upgrading ITI network in the country. On this account, 60 thousand crore rupees are being spent under the PM Setu Scheme.

My government is preparing an industry-ready workforce for modern technology. So far, 60 thousand youth have been trained for the semiconductor industry. 10 lakh youth are being trained in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Honourable Members,

42. Today, in view of the dangers arising due to misuse of AI, it is imperative to be serious on this issue. DeepFake, misinformation, and fake content are becoming significant threats to democracy, social harmony, and public trust. It is essential that all of you deliberate on this grave issue.

Honourable Members,

43. Through the combined efforts of India’s youth and my government, the country is also witnessing unprecedented development in sports. The way the performance of our daughters and divyang fellow citizens has improved, is truly remarkable. India’s Women’s cricket team has won the World Cup for the first time. Similarly, the Blind Women’s cricket team has also won the World Cup. I extend my heartiest congratulations to my daughters.

Honourable Members,

44. Over the past decade, reforms have been undertaken in every system related to sports in India. My government has formulated the Khelo India policy and made sports-related institutions transparent.

As a result of its preparedness and confidence, India has been entrusted with the responsibility of hosting the Commonwealth Games-2030. I am confident that the country’s capable youth power will play a decisive role in building Viksit Bharat.

To connect the youth with the idea of nation-building, my government has also launched the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue Platform. This year, nearly 50 lakh young people have registered through this platform. Around two crore youth have also joined the MY Bharat platform, so far.

Honourable Members,

45. You all are aware that the world is going through a phase of complexities. Long-standing global equations are also undergoing change. Uncertainties arising from ongoing conflicts have also strained global stability and economy. Even amid these challenging circumstances, India continues to move ahead rapidly on the path of development. Behind this success lies the balanced foreign policy and far-sighted vision of my government.

Honourable Members,

46. Amid the complex global circumstances prevailing at present, India is playing the role of a bridge in the world. Even nations engaged in conflict, express their trust in India on important issues. It is a matter of satisfaction that India has consistently given priority to balance, impartiality, and humanitarian considerations. At the same time, it has remained steadfast in its resolve of ‘India First’.

Honourable Members,

47. India has amplified the voice of the Global South across the world. India has forged new partnerships and reinforced long-standing relationships across regions including Africa and Latin America, and strengthened old ties. India has also consistently strengthened its presence on various international platforms including BIMSTEC, G20, BRICS, and SCO.

Honourable Members,

48. India has always believed that service to humanity should be the ultimate objective of global politics and cooperation. India has also presented inspiring examples for this through its actions. In times of crisis in Latin America, South-East Asia, the Pacific Islands, and neighbouring countries, India always stepped forward to provide every possible assistance. In November 2025, during Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka, my government carried out Operation Sagar Bandhu. India also played the role of first responder in Myanmar and Afghanistan.

Honourable Members,

49. Today, India is shouldering major responsibilities in several global organisations with its extensive role and proactive engagement. This year, India holds the presidency of BRICS, and the world is viewing it with great optimism. Keeping in mind the future opportunities and challenges, India is also going to host a Global AI Impact Summit to bring the international community on a common platform. This too will prove to be a significant event for the world.

Honourable Members,

50. To reach the goal of Viksit Bharat, as much importance is required to be given to national self-respect and cultural pride as to modern development. From the cultural perspective, India is among the richest nations in the world. My government is working to transform this heritage into a source of strength for the country.

Through Macaulay’s conspiracies, a sense of inferiority was instilled among the people of India during the colonial period. Now, for the first time since independence, my government has shown the courage to strike a blow on this.

Honourable Members,

51. Today, the nation is working on each and every front to preserve and enrich its own cultural heritage. In this direction, through the efforts of my government, the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha have returned to India after one hundred and twenty five years. These relics have now been offered for public viewing.

This year also marks the completion of 75th year of reconstruction of the Somnath Temple in Saurashtra. The thousand year journey since the attacks on the Somnath Temple stands as a symbol of India’s religious devotion, Sanatan culture, and enduring faith. The enthusiasm with which people across the country participated in the Somnath Swabhimaan Parv has been truly unmatched.

Some time ago, the establishment of Gangaikonda-Cholapuram by Rajendra Chola completed one thousand years. This occasion too has given crores of Indians an opportunity to feel proud about their glorious past.

Honourable Members,

52. Our nation has been a centre of ancient learning. This body of knowledge was preserved for thousands of years, generation after generation, in the form of ancient manuscripts. However, due to foreign invasions and the neglect in the years following Independence, this priceless heritage has suffered serious loss. Now, my government is taking steps to preserve this vast reservoir of knowledge. Through the Gyan Bharatam Mission, digitisation of ancient manuscripts has begun across the country. These efforts will play an important role in preserving the Indian knowledge tradition and making it accessible to the people in future.

Honourable Members,

53. My government is also establishing tribal museums to preserve the rich tribal heritage of the country. As a part of this, the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museum in Chhattisgarh was inaugurated recently. I am happy to announce that by getting the Constitution translated in Santhali language, my government has enhanced the pride of tribal community.

Honourable Members,

54. When we respect our traditions and culture, the world also respects them. Last year, UNESCO has included our Diwali festival in its list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Besides the increasing popularity of Diwali across the world, this recognition by UNESCO has been a matter of great pride for all Indians.

Honourable Members,

55. Amid different opinions and diverse viewpoints, there has been unanimity about nothing being greater than the nation. Venerable Mahatma Gandhi, Nehru Ji, Babasaheb, Sardar Patel, JP Ji, Lohia Ji, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, Atal Ji have all shared the belief that differences of opinion on issues are natural in democracy, but there are certain subjects which are beyond all differences. The resolve of Viksit Bharat, the security of India, Atmanirbharata, the campaign for Swadeshi, efforts toward national unity, Swachhata, and on all such matters concerning the nation, the Parliamentarians must stand united. This precisely is the spirit of our Constitution. Therefore, today I urge all of you: let every Member of Parliament take a unified stand on issues of national interest as participants in the nation’s development, and infuse new energy into India’s progress.

Honourable Members,

56. Today, all citizens can see that India stands at an important stage in its journey towards the future. The impact of the decisions being taken today will be seen in the years to come.

The goal of Viksit Bharat is not limited to any one government or one generation. It is a continuous journey. In this journey, the efforts, discipline, and continuity of all of us are important. In the times to come, the nation’s progress will be shaped by its collective determination.

I am confident that the Parliament, the Government, and the citizens, together will fulfil the resolve of Viksit Bharat. The citizens of India will move forward, according supreme importance to national interest and upholding Constitutional values. I am confident that all citizens will discharge their duties in national interest and for welfare of the country. With this faith, I extend my best wishes to all the Parliamentarians for a successful and meaningful session ahead.

Thank you!
Jai Hind!
Jai Bharat!