New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the government’s commitment to comprehensive development, stating that the primary goal is to achieve a “Vikshit Bharat” (developed India) through a “saturation approach” to ensure that no one is left behind. In her address to a joint session of Parliament during the Budget session, she highlighted the significant strides made in various sectors.
President Murmu praised the government’s efforts in promoting self-reliance in defense, noting that Indian-made defense products are now gaining international recognition. She mentioned the completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway project, which connects Kashmir to Kanyakumari, and celebrated the expansion of India’s metro rail network, now the third largest in the world.
She also focused on the development of the northeastern states, referencing the inaugural Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav aimed at showcasing their potential. In healthcare, she noted the establishment of 1.75 lakh ‘Arogya Mandirs’ and the waiver of customs duties on many cancer medicines to address rising cancer cases.
On cybersecurity, President Murmu stated that the government is tackling challenges like digital fraud and cybercrime, achieving a Tier 1 status in the Global Cyber Security index. She acknowledged the Finance Ministry’s initiatives to support businesses, including the Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs and the promotion of e-commerce export hubs.
The success of India’s Unified Payment Interface (UPI) was highlighted as a testament to the country’s growing influence in digital technology. The President also announced the launch of the India AI Mission, aimed at positioning India as a global leader in innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence.
Furthermore, she noted the rapid growth of the aviation sector, with airlines ordering 1,700 new aircraft. The Budget session began with her address, followed by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presenting the Economic Survey, which provides insights into the economy and forecasts for the upcoming fiscal year.
The session will address several important bills, including amendments related to Waqf management, banking laws, railways, disaster management, and more. The first part of the Budget session will last until February 13, with the two Houses reconvening on March 10 and concluding on April 4.