New Delhi: On Friday, President Droupadi Murmu announced that, through the government's initiatives, India is poised to become the world's third-largest economy. She emphasized that the guiding principle of her administration is "Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas."
President Murmu delivered her remarks during a joint session of both Houses of Parliament, which marked the commencement of this year's Budget Session.
Arriving in a horse-drawn carriage, she began her address with the national anthem.
"Two months ago, we celebrated 75 years since the adoption of our Constitution, and just days ago, we marked 75 years of our journey as a nation. On behalf of all Indians, I pay homage to Babasaheb Ambedkar and all members of the Constitution Committee," President Murmu stated.
In her speech, she also honored Baba Saheb Ambedkar, saying, "I pay my respects to Baba Saheb Ambedkar and all those who contributed to the Constitution."
Expressing sorrow over the tragic stampede during the ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, which resulted in 30 fatalities, she remarked, "The historic Mahakumbh is currently taking place in our country. It represents India's cultural identity and social enlightenment. Millions of devotees have already participated in the holy dip at Mahakumbh. I express my condolences for the incident that occurred during Mouni Amavasya and pray for the swift recovery of the injured."
Additionally, she took a moment to remember former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away last year.
A few days ago, we mourned the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who dedicated a decade of his life to serving the nation and had a long tenure in parliament. I extend my respects to Dr. Singh, stated Murmu.
"Currently, our nation is experiencing significant decisions being made rapidly. These decisions prioritize the needs of women, youth, the middle class, and farmers," she continued.
"My administration has implemented robust measures to ensure housing through the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojna. Additionally, we have committed to providing three crore more homes under this initiative. My government is dedicated to realizing the middle class's aspiration of owning a home," the president remarked.
"Under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, we have resolved to offer health insurance to six crore senior citizens aged 70 and above, providing them with an annual health coverage of five lakh rupees," she added.
Following the President's address, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Economic Survey in advance of the Union Budget presentation on Saturday. The survey will be introduced in the Lok Sabha at noon and in the Rajya Sabha at 2 PM.
The Economic Survey, crafted by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs within the Ministry of Finance and overseen by the chief economic adviser, offers insights into the economic landscape and various indicators for the fiscal year 2024-25 (April-March), along with projections for the upcoming fiscal year.
This document may also provide indications regarding the overall approach and details of the forthcoming budget for 2025-26, which is set to be unveiled on Saturday.
The budget is scheduled for presentation on February 1. On that day, the Finance Minister will deliver the Union Budget in the Lok Sabha at 11 am. The budget speech will detail the government's fiscal strategies, proposals for revenue and expenditure, tax reforms, and other important announcements.
