Srinagar, Jan 31: President Droupadi Murmu commended the transformative reforms undertaken by the Modi government over the past decade during her address to the joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha at the newly inaugurated Parliament building. She asserted that concerns surrounding the abrogation of Article 370 are now deemed irrelevant.
Highlighting India’s robust stance against terrorism on the global stage, the President stated, “The armed forces are responding effectively to terrorism, and India has become a significant voice globally in opposing terrorism.”
Addressing the apprehensions about the removal of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, President Murmu affirmed, “There is a sense of security in Jammu and Kashmir today.”
She went on to describe the positive transformations in the region, noting the lively atmosphere in markets that were once deserted due to strikes. President Murmu also highlighted a substantial reduction in incidents of separatism in the Northeast and the proactive steps taken by various organisations toward permanent peace. Moreover, she underscored the shrinking of Naxal-affected areas and a steep decline in Naxal violence.
Reflecting on the current state of Jammu and Kashmir, the President stated, “Jammu and Kashmir currently experiences a peaceful and secure environment, with vibrant markets replacing the past silence of shutdowns.”
President Murmu outlined the government’s vision for a developed India, emphasising the pivotal roles of youth, women, farmers, and the poor. She lauded the economic stability achieved through government reforms, quoting NITI Aayog, “In the span of my government’s 10-year rule, almost 25 crore people have risen above the poverty line.”
“There is a sense of security in Jammu and Kashmir today. The earlier deserted look of market places due to strike has been replaced by the hustle and bustle of crowded markets. There has been a significant reduction in the incidents of separatism in the Northeast. Many organisations have taken steps towards permanent peace. Naxal-affected areas have shrunk and there has been a steep decline in Naxal violence,” she said.
Addressing the government’s principles, the President stated, “In the last ten years, the government has prioritised good governance and transparency as the fundamental principles of every system.”
She emphasised the ongoing efforts to simplify business operations and create a conducive environment for business in India. “In the past decade, my government has transformed traditional diplomatic approaches. Previously, diplomatic events were limited to Delhi’s corridors, but my government has ensured the direct involvement of the public in these matters,” the president said.
She said that a notable example of this was witnessed during India’s G-20 presidency, where India innovatively connected the G-20 with the public, earning unprecedented acclaim globally.
The President said that India’s vision, ranging from ‘women-led development’ to environmental concerns, has become the foundation of the declaration.
The President also mentioned the international appreciation for India’s endeavours to secure permanent membership in the African Union within the G-20 framework.
The President said that India’s actual capabilities were presented globally through events held across the country. “Jammu and Kashmir along with the North East saw major international events for the first time,” she added.
Highlighting India’s global role in opposing terrorism, President Murmu remarked, “India has been positioned as a ‘Vishwa-Mitra’ during these challenging times.” She credited the government’s transformation of traditional diplomatic approaches, with public involvement witnessed during India’s G-20 presidency, earning unprecedented global acclaim.
The President, later, underscored India’s vision, ranging from ‘women-led development’ to environmental concerns, and acknowledged international appreciation for India’s efforts to secure permanent membership in the African Union within the G-20 framework. She noted that India’s actual capabilities were showcased globally through major international events, with Jammu and Kashmir and the North East hosting significant events for the first time.
