President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation on Sunday (January 25, 2026) on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, speaking on a wide range of issues including Operation Sindoor, women empowerment, India’s growing economy, and the enduring significance of Vande Mataram.
In her address, the President outlined India’s position as a “messenger” of peace while reaffirming the country’s ancient civilisational commitment to universal harmony. “In our tradition, we have been offering prayers for peace to prevail in the entire universe. The future of humanity can remain secure only if there is peace in the whole world,” she said.
The address was broadcast from 7 p.m. on the entire national network of Akashvani and telecast on all Doordarshan channels in Hindi, followed by the English version. Regional language broadcasts were later aired by Doordarshan’s regional channels. Akashvani also broadcast regional language versions from 9.30 p.m. onwards on its respective regional networks, according to a statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Spiritual and Cultural Traditions
Speaking on India’s cultural and spiritual traditions, President Murmu quoted Shree Narayana Guru, the renowned social reformer from Kerala, and emphasised fraternity beyond caste and creed. “In recent years, sacred sites related to our spiritual tradition have been reconnected with the people’s consciousness,” she said. “It has been resolved to eradicate the vestiges of colonial mindset in a time-bound manner.”
Economy and GST
Highlighting economic reforms, the President said, “The most important decision for the economic integration of the country after independence, the implementation of GST, has established a system of ‘One Nation, One Market’.” She added that recent GST reforms would further strengthen the economy.
Operation Sindoor and Defence Preparedness
Referring to India’s defence capabilities, President Murmu said, “Our self-reliance in field of defence powered historic success of Operation Sindoor.” Emphasising India’s global outlook, she added, “In an atmosphere marked by conflicts in many parts of world, India is spreading message of peace.”
Contribution of Citizens and Overseas Indians
Lauding the contribution of citizens across sectors, the President said, “Public representatives committed to public service are achieving the goals of welfare and development in accordance with the aspirations of the countrymen. Thus, all aware and sensitive citizens are advancing the progress of our republic.” She also expressed appreciation for the Indian diaspora, stating, “Overseas Indians bring pride to the image of our Republic on the global stage. I hold them in special appreciation.”
President Murmu praised entrepreneurs and workers, saying, “Our energetic entrepreneurs are contributing to the development and self-reliance of the nation,” and added, “All the dedicated individuals working in government and non-government offices and institutions are devoting their services to nation-building.”
Democracy, Women Empowerment, and Youth
On National Voters’ Day, the President recalled Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision, stating, “‘Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar believed that exercise of voting rights ensures political education.’” She added, “Our voters, in keeping with Babasaheb’s vision, are demonstrating their political awareness. The increasing participation of women in voting is a powerful dimension of our republic.”
Highlighting women-led development, she said, “The ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign has encouraged the education of girls. More than 570 million bank accounts have been opened so far under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. Of these, approximately 56% belong to women.”
She also praised women’s achievements in sports, saying, “‘In the field of sports, our daughters have established new benchmarks at the global level.’” She added, “Last November, India’s daughters created golden history by winning the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and then the Blind Women’s T20 World Cup,” and noted that the final of the Chess World Cup last year was contested between two Indian women.
Armed Forces and Nation Builders
Commending the armed forces and police, the President said, “All of you are strengthening our vibrant republic. The brave soldiers of our three armed forces are always vigilant to protect the motherland. Our dedicated police personnel and Central Armed Police Forces personnel remain ready to ensure the internal security of our countrymen.”
She also acknowledged the contribution of sanitation workers, teachers, scientists, engineers, artists, craftsmen, and experts, stating that their work continues to guide the country’s multifaceted development. “Our hardworking brothers and sisters rebuild the nation. Our promising youth and children, with their talents and contributions, strengthen our faith in our country’s bright future,” she said.
National Unity and Constitutional Values
Referring to the ongoing celebrations of Vande Mataram, the President said, “Since last year, from November 7, celebrations are also being held to mark the 150th anniversary of the composition of our national song ‘Vande Mataram’. This song, a hymn to the divine form of Mother India, instills patriotism in the hearts of every person.”
Paying tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, she said, “Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel unified our nation. Last year, on 31 October, grateful countrymen enthusiastically celebrated his 150th birth anniversary.”
On constitutional values, President Murmu said that the Constitution is “the foundational text of the largest republic in world history to date,” and concluded her address by extending greetings to citizens, saying, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you on the national festival of Republic Day.”
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