Address by President of Bharat Droupadi Murmu to Parliament

New Delhi.

1. This is my first address in this new Parliament building. This magnificent building has been constructed at the beginning of “Azadi ka Amrit Kaal”.

          It is imbued with the fragrance of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ and is a testimony to India’s civilization and culture.

          It also resonates with the resolve to respect our democratic and parliamentary traditions.

          Moreover, it embodies the commitment to forge new traditions for the new India of the 21st century.

          I am confident that this new building will be witness to productive dialogue on policies — policies that will shape the development of ‘Viksit Bharat’ in the Amrit Kaal of our independence.

          I extend my best wishes to all of you.

Honorable Members,

2. This year is also the 75th year of adoption of our Constitution.

          During this period, Amrit Mahotsav, the celebration of 75 years of independence, was completed.

          During this period, many programmes were organized across the country.

          The country remembered its unsung freedom fighters.

          After 75 years, the young generation relived that period of freedom struggle.

3. During this campaign:

• Amrit Kalash containing soil from every village of the country were brought to Delhi under the ‘Meri Maati, Mera Desh’ campaign.
• Over 2 lakh plaques were installed.
• More than three crore people took the oath of the ‘Panch Pran’.
• More than 70,000 Amrit Sarovars were built.
• Construction of more than two lakh “Amrit Vatikas” was completed.
• Over two crore trees were planted.
• More than 16 crore people uploaded their selfies with the Tricolour.

4. It was during the Amrit Mahotsav that,

• A statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was installed on “Kartavya Path”.
• A museum dedicated to all the Prime Ministers of the country was inaugurated in Delhi, the national capital.
• Shantiniketan and Hoysala Temple were included in the World Heritage List.
• Veer Bal Diwas was declared in the memory of “Sahibzaade”.
• Birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda was declared as “Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas”.
• August 14 was declared as “Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas” to commemorate the horrors of partition.

Honorable Members,

5. The past year has been full of historic achievements for India. During this period, there were many moments which enhanced the pride of our countrymen.

• Amidst serious global crises, India emerged as the fastest-growing major economy, consistently maintaining a growth rate of over 7.5 percent for two consecutive quarters.
• India became the first country to hoist its flag on the southern pole of the Moon.
• India successfully launched the Aditya Mission and its satellite reached a distance of 15 lakh kilometers away from Earth.
• Success of the historic G-20 Summit strengthened India’s global standing.
• India won more than 100 medals for the first time in Asian Games.
• We also won more than 100 medals in Para Asian Games.
• India got its largest sea-bridge, the Atal Setu.
• India got its first Namo Bharat train and the first Amrit Bharat train.
• India became the country with the fastest 5G rollout in the world.
• An Indian Airline company executed the world’s largest aircraft deal.
• Last year, my government has given government jobs to lakhs of youth in mission mode.

Honorable Members,

6. Over the past 12 months, my government introduced several important legislations.

          These laws have been enacted with the cooperation of all parliamentarians.

          These are laws that lay a strong foundation for the realization of vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’.

          I appreciate all of you for having enacted the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam after a wait of three decades.

          This has paved the way for ensuring greater participation of women in the Lok Sabha and the Legislative Assemblies.

          This strengthens my government’s resolve for women-led development.

          My government has continuously upheld its commitment to Reform, Perform and Transform.

          The criminal justice system rooted in the era of slavery is now history. Now, justice takes precedence over punishment. The nation has got a new Nyaya Sanhita based on the principle of ‘Justice First’.

          The Digital Personal Data Protection Act will make the digital space more secure.

          “Anusandhan National Research Foundation Act” will strengthen research and innovation in the country.

          The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act will ensure the right to representation to tribals there.

          During this period the Central University Act was amended. This paved the way for setting up a Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University in Telangana.

          Last year, 76 other old laws were also repealed.

          My government is aware of the concerns of youth regarding irregularities in examinations.

          Therefore, it has been decided to enact a new law to deal sternly with such malpractices.

Honorable Members,

7. Any nation can progress at a fast pace only when it overcomes the past challenges and invests maximum energy in the future.

          Over the past 10 years, India has witnessed several such tasks being accomplished in the national interest, for which the people of the country were waiting for decades.

          For centuries, there was an aspiration to construct the Ram Mandir. Today it is a reality.

          There were doubts regarding the removal of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir. Those are now history.

          This Parliament also enacted a strict law against ‘Triple Talaq’.

          This Parliament also enacted a law to grant citizenship to persecuted minorities from our neighboring countries.

          My government also implemented One Rank One Pension,
which was awaited for four decades. After implementation of OROP, the ex-servicemen have by now received approximately Rupees 1 lakh crore.

          For the first time, a Chief of Defence Staff has been appointed for India’s defence forces.

Honorable Members,

8. The immortal lines of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das inspire the sentiment of boundless patriotism. He had said,

मिशु मोर देह ए देश माटिरे,

देशबासी चालि जाआन्तु पिठिरे।

देशर स्वराज्य-पथे जेते गाड़,

पूरु तहिं पड़ि मोर मांस हाड़।

          that is

          Let my body dissolve in the soil of this country,

          Let the countrymen ride on my back and go.

          All the potholes that are there in the country’s path to independence,

          Let them all be filled with my flesh and bones.

          In these lines we see the pinnacle of duty and the ideal of Nation-First.

9. The achievements that are visible today are the outcome of the endeavors of last 10 years.

          Since childhood, we have been hearing the slogan of ‘Garibi Hatao’. Now, for the first time in our lives, we are witnessing eradication of poverty on a massive scale.

          According to NITI Aayog, in the last one decade of my Government, about 25 crore countrymen have been lifted out of poverty.

          This is something that instills great confidence among the poor.

          If the poverty of 25 crore people can be alleviated, then her poverty can also be alleviated.

10. If we look at various dimensions of the economy today, then it boosts our confidence that India is moving forward in the right direction, taking right decisions.

• In the last 10 years:
• We have seen India transform from “fragile five” to a “top five” economy.
• India’s exports have increased from about $450 billion to more than $775 billion.
• FDI flows have doubled.
• Sales of Khadi and Village Industries products have increased by more than 4 times.
• The number of people filing Income Tax Return has increased from about 3.25 crores to about 8.25 crores i.e., it has more than doubled.
• A decade ago:
• There were only a few hundred start-ups in the country which have grown to more than one lakh today.
• 94 thousand companies were registered in a year. Now this number has increased to 1 lakh 60 thousand.
• In December 2017, 98 lakh people used to pay GST, today their number is 1 crore 40 lakh.
• Around 13 crore vehicles were sold in the 10 years before 2014. In the last 10 years, countrymen have purchased more than 21 crore vehicles.
• About 2 thousand electric vehicles were sold in 2014-15. Whereas, till the month of December for the year 2023-24, about 12 lakh electric vehicles have been sold.

Honorable Members,

11. In the last decade, my government has made good governance and transparency the main foundation of every institution.

          As a result of this, we have witnessed major economic reforms.

• During this period, Insolvency and Bankruptcy code was enacted in the country.
• The country now has One country One Tax law in the form of GST.
• My Government has also ensured macro-economic stability.
• In 10 years, Capex has increased 5 times to Rupees 10 lakh crore. Fiscal Deficit is also under control.
• Today, we have Forex reserves in excess of 600 billion US dollars.
• Our banking system, which was in a very bad shape earlier, has today become one of the strongest banking systems in the world.
• NPAs of banks which used to be in double digits in the past are today around only 4 percent.
• Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaigns have become our strengths.
• Today, India is the world’s second-largest producer of mobile phones.
• During the last decade, there has been a five-fold increase in mobile phone manufacturing.
• A few years ago, India used to import toys, today India is exporting Made in India toys.
• India’s defence production has crossed Rupees one lakh crore.
• Today, every Indian feels proud on seeing the country’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.
• The combat aircraft Tejas is becoming the strength of our air force.
• The manufacturing of C-295 transport aircraft is going to take place in India.
• Modern aircraft engines will also be made in India.
• Defence corridors are being developed in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
• My government has ensured participation of the private sector in the defence sector.
• Our government has opened up the space sector also for young start-ups.

Honorable Members,

12. My government acknowledges the contribution of wealth creators and believes in the capabilities of India’s private sector.

          We are committed to creating a conducive environment for doing business in India, and the government is consistently working towards this goal.

• There has been consistent improvement in Ease of Doing Business.
• More than 40,000 compliances have been removed or simplified in the last few years.
• 63 provisions in the Companies Act and Limited Liability Partnership Act have been removed from the list of criminal offences.
• The Jan Vishwas Act has decriminalized 183 provisions under various laws.
• A Mediation law has been enacted for amicable resolution of disputes outside the court.
• Forest and Environment Clearances now take less than 75 days whereas it used to take 600 days earlier.
• Faceless Assessment Scheme has brought greater transparency in tax administration.

Honorable Members,

13. Our MSME sector is also benefiting enormously from reforms.

          As you are aware, today, crores of citizens are working in MSMEs.

          Our government is working with full commitment to empower the MSMEs and small entrepreneurs.

• The definition of MSMEs has been expanded.
• Investment and turnover have been added in the new definition.
• Presently, approximately 3.5 crore MSMEs are registered on the Udyam and Udyam Assist Portal.
• Under the Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs, guarantees of nearly Rupees 5 lakh crore have been sanctioned in the last few years.
• This is over six times higher than the amount provided in the preceding decade before 2014.

Honorable Members,

14. Another significant reform of my government is the creation of Digital India. Digital India has made life and business much easier in India.

          Today, the whole world acknowledges this as a great achievement of India. Even developed countries do not have a digital system like India has.

          It was beyond the imagination of some people that, even in villages, routine buying and selling will be done digitally.

• Today, 46 percent of the world’s total real-time digital transactions take place in India.
• A record 1200 crore transactions were done through UPI last month.
• This amounts to a record transaction of Rupees 18 lakh crore.
• Other countries of the world are also now providing the facility of transactions through UPI.
• Digital India has made banking more convenient and disbursement of loans easier.
• The trinity of Jan Dhan Aadhar Mobile (JAM) has helped curb corruption.
• My government has so far transferred Rupees 34 lakh crore through DBT.
• Thanks to Jan Dhan Aadhar Mobile (JAM), about 10 crore fake beneficiaries have been weeded out from the system.
• This has helped prevent Rupees 2.75 lakh crore from going into wrong hands.
• The facility of DigiLocker is also making life easier. More than 6 billion documents have so far been issued to its users.
• Digital Health IDs of around 53 crore people have been created under Ayushman Bharat Health Account.

Honorable Members,

15. Along with digital, there has been record investment in physical infrastructure. Today, infrastructure is being built in India, the kind of which every Indian used to dream about.

In the last 10 years:

• Nearly 3.75 lakh kilometers of new roads have been built in the villages.
• The length of National Highways has increased from 90 thousand kilometers to 1 lakh 46 thousand kilometers.
• The length of four-lane national highways has increased 2.5 times.
• The length of the high-speed corridor was 500 kilometers earlier, is now 4 thousand kilometers.
• The number of airports has doubled from 74 to 149.
• Cargo handling capacity at major ports of the country has doubled.
• The number of broadband users has increased 14 times.
• Nearly 2 lakh village panchayats of the country have been connected with optical fiber.
• More than 4 lakh common service centers have been opened in villages. These have become a major source of employment.
• 10,000 kilometers of gas pipeline has been laid in the country.
• One Nation, One Power Grid has improved power transmission in the country.
• One Nation, One Gas Grid is boosting gas-based economy.
• The metro facility, limited to only 5 cities is now in 20 cities.
• More than 25 thousand kilometers of railway tracks were laid. This is more than the total length of railway tracks in many developed countries.
• India is very close to 100% electrification of railways.
• During this period, semi high-speed trains have been started for the first time in India.
• Today Vande Bharat trains are running on more than 39 routes.
• More than 1300 railway stations are being transformed under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

Honorable Members,

16. My government believes that the grand edifice of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ will be erected on 4 strong pillars.

          These pillars are – youth power, women power, farmers and poor.

          Their situation and dreams are similar in every part and every section of society in the country.

          My government is, therefore, working tirelessly to empower these four pillars.

          My government has spent a significant portion of the tax revenues to empower these pillars.

• 4 crore 10 lakh poor families have got their own pucca houses. About Rupees 6 lakh crore have been spent on this initiative.
• For the first time, piped water has reached about 11 crore rural families.
• Around Rupees 4 lakh crore are being spent for this.
• 10 crore Ujjwala gas connections have by now been provided.
• These beneficiary sisters are also being provided cooking gas at very cheap rates.
• Government has spent around Rupees 2.5 lakh crore on this scheme.
• Since the outbreak of coronavirus pandemic, 80 crore countrymen are being given free ration.
• This facility has now been extended for another 5 years.
• An additional Rupees 11 lakh crore would be spent on this.
• My government’s endeavour is to ensure speedy saturation under every scheme. No eligible person should remain deprived.
• With this objective, Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra has been underway since 15th November. So far, around 19 crore citizens have participated in this yatra.

Honorable Members,

17. In the last few years, the world has witnessed two major wars and faced a global pandemic like Corona.

          Despite such global crises, my government has managed to keep inflation in the country under control, preventing additional burden on our countrymen.

          In the 10 years prior to 2014, the average inflation rate was over 8 percent. However, the average inflation rate has been maintained at 5 percent in the last decade.

          My government’s endeavour has been to increase savings in the hands of ordinary citizens.

• Earlier, Income Tax in India was levied on income of Rupees 2 lakh and above.
• Today in India, there is no tax on income up to Rupees 7 lakh.
• Due to tax exemptions and reforms, Indian taxpayers have saved about Rupees 2.5 lakh crore in the last 10 years.
• In addition to the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the central government is also providing free treatment in various hospitals. This has helped country’s citizens save nearly Rupees three and a half lakh crore.
• Jan Aushadhi Kendras have helped our countrymen save about Rupees 28 thousand crore on purchase of medicines.
• Prices of coronary stents, knee implants, cancer medicines have also been reduced. Due to this, patients are saving approximately Rupees 27 thousand crore every year.
• My government is also running a programme to provide free dialysis to kidney patients. More than 21 lakh patients are availing this facility every year. This has helped patients save Rupees one lakh every year.
• My government has spent nearly Rupees 20 lakh crore so that poor people continue to receive subsidized rations.
• Railways gives about 50 percent discount on every passenger travelling by Indian Railways. Due to this, poor and middle class passengers save Rupees 60 thousand crore every year.
• The poor and middle class are getting air tickets at lower prices. Under the UDAN scheme, the poor and middle class have saved more than Rupees three thousand crore on air tickets.
• Thanks to the LED bulb scheme, there has been a saving of over Rupees 20,000 crore in electricity bills.
• Under Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and Suraksha Bima Yojana, poor people have received over Rupees 16,000 crore in claims.

Honorable Members,

18. My government is working at every level to strengthen Nari Shakti.

          This year’s Republic Day Parade was also dedicated to women empowerment.

          In this parade, the world once again witnessed the capability of our daughters.

          My government has enlarged the role of daughters everywhere – in water, land, sky and space.

          We all are aware what economic independence means for women.

          My government has made relentless efforts to enhance women’s economic participation.

• Today about 10 crore women are associated with Self-help groups.
• Bank loans worth Rupees 8 lakh crore and financial assistance worth Rupees 40 thousand crores have been disbursed to these groups.
• The government is implementing a campaign to make 2 crore women Lakhpati Didis.
• 15 thousand drones are being provided to groups under NAMO Drone Didi 
• Increasing maternity leavefrom 12 weeks to 26 weeks has greatly benefited lakhs of women of the country.
• Our government has granted permanent commission to women for the first time in the Armed Forces.
• For the first time, women cadets have been given admission in Sainik Schools and National Defence Academy.
• Today, women are also fighter pilotsand are also commanding naval ships for the first time.
• Out of more than 46 crore loans extended under Mudra Yojana, more than 31 crore loans have been given to women.
• Crores of women have become self-employed by availing benefits under this scheme.

Honorable Members,

19. My government is laying stress on making farming more profitable. Our aim is to reduce the cost of farming while increasing profits.

          For the first time, my government has given priority to over 10 crore small farmers in the country’s agricultural policy and schemes.

• Under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhischeme, farmers have received over Rupees 2 lakh 80 thousand crore so far.
• Over the past 10 years, there has been a threefold increase in easy loans for farmers from banks.
• Under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, farmers paid a premium of Rupees 30 thousand crore. In return, they have received a claim of Rupees 1.5 lakh crore.
• In the last 10 years, farmers have received nearly Rupees 18 lakh crore as MSP (Minimum Support Price) for paddy and wheat crops.
• This is 2.5 times more than the preceding 10 years before 2014.
• Previously, the government procurement of oilseeds and pulses crops was negligible.
• In the last decade, farmers producing oilseeds and pulses have received over Rupees 1.25 lakh crore as MSP.
• It is our government that has formulated the Agricultural Export Policyin the country for the first time.
• This has led to agricultural exports reaching up to Rupees 4 lakh crore.
• In 10 years, more than Rupees 11 lakh crore have been spent to provide fertilizers to farmers at affordable prices.
• My government has established more than 1.75 lakh Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendra.
• So far, around 8,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have been formed.
• My government is promoting cooperatives in agriculture. Therefore, a Ministry of Cooperation has been established for the first time in the country.
• The world’s largest Grain Storage planhas been launched in the cooperative sector.
• In villages where there are no cooperative societies, 2 lakh societies are being established.
• Schemes worth more than Rupees 38 thousand crore are being implemented in the fisheries sector, due to which fish production has increased from 95 lakh metric tonnes to 175 lakh metric tonnes i.e. almost doubled in the last ten years.
• Inland fisheries production has increased from 61 lakh metric tonnes to 131 lakh metric tonnes.
• Exports in fisheries sector has more than doubled i.e., increase from Rupees 30 thousand crore to Rupees 64 thousand crore.
• For the first time in the country, livestock farmers and fishermen have been given the benefit of Kisan Credit Card.
• In the last decade, per capita milk availability has increased by 40 percent.
• The first free vaccination campaign is underway to protect animals from foot and mouth diseases.
• So far, more than 50 crore doses have been administered to animals in four phases.

Honorable Members,

20. All these public welfare schemes are not just services. These are having a positive impact on the life cycle of the citizens of the country.

          The outcomes of my government’s schemes have been the subject of studies by various government and non-government organizations.

          The outcomes of these schemes have been impactful and will serve as inspiring examples for every country engaged in combating poverty.

          Studies conducted by various institutions in recent years have found that:

• Construction of 11 crore toilets and elimination of open defecation have prevented incidence of many diseases.
• As a result, every poor household in the urban area is saving up to Rupees 60 thousand per year on medical expenses.
• Supply of piped drinking water is saving lives of lakhs of children every year.
• Construction of pucca houses under the PM Awas Yojana has enhanced the social status and dignity of the beneficiary families.
• Education of children in families having ‘pucca’ houses has improved and has resulted in a decline in the dropout rates.
• Under the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan, 100 percent institutional deliveries are taking place in the country today. This has resulted in a sharp decline in maternal mortality rate.
• According to another study, incidence of serious diseases has reduced in the Ujjwala beneficiary families.

Honorable Members,

21. My government is focussed on human-centric development. The dignity of every citizen is paramount for us. This is our idea of social justice. This is also the spirit of every article of the Constitution of India.

          For a long time there was discussion only on rights. We also stressed on the duties of the government. This has awakened a sense of duty among the citizens also. Today, a feeling has been generated that performance of one’s duties ensures a guarantee of one’s rights.

          My government has also cared for those who have so far been away from the development stream. During the last 10 years, thousands of tribal villages have been provided with electricity and road connectivity for the first time. Lakhs of tribal families have now started getting piped water supply. Under a special campaign, my government is also providing 4G internet connectivity to thousands of villages inhabited largely by tribals. Establishment of Van Dhan Kendras and MSP on more than 90 forest produce have immensely benefitted the tribals.

          For the first time, my government has focused on development of the particularly vulnerable tribal groups. PM Janman Yojana with an outlay of around Rupees 24 thousand crore has been launched for these groups.  Generations of tribal families have been afflicted with sickle cell anemia. For the first time, a national mission has been launched to address this. So far, about one crore forty lakh people have been screened under this mission.

          My government has also launched the ‘Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’ for the “Divyangjan”. Textbooks in Indian Sign Language have also been made available.

          A law has also been enacted to give a respectable position to transgender persons in the society and protect their rights.

Honorable Members,

22. It is difficult to imagine daily life without Vishwakarma families. These families pass on their skills from generation to generation. However, due to lack of government support, our Vishwakarma companions were facing a difficult time. My government has also taken care of such Vishwakarma families. So far, more than 84 lakh people have connected with the PM Vishwakarma Yojana.

          For many decades, our friends working as street vendors were also left to their fate. My government has given them access to banking system through PM SVANidhi Yojana. So far, an amount of more than Rupees 10,000 crore has been given as loans. Reposing trust in them, government gave collateral-free loans. Cementing this trust, most of the people not only repaid the loan but also availed the next installment. Majority of the beneficiaries are Dalits, backward classes, tribals and women.

Honorable Members,

23. My government guided by the mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas”, is committed to provide fair opportunities to every section of the society.

• For the first time, benefit of reservation has been extended to persons belonging to economically weaker sections of the general category.
• 27 percent reservation has been introduced under central quota for OBCs in under graduate and postgraduate medical courses.
• Constitutional status has been granted to National Commission for Backward Classes.
• 5 places associated with Baba Saheb Ambedkar have been developed as Panchteerth.
• 10 museums dedicated to tribal freedom fighters are being built across the country.

Honorable Members,

24. My government has, for the first time, brought development to areas, which remained neglected for decades. The villages adjoining our borders were viewed as the last villages of the country. We recognized them as the first villages of the country. In order to develop these villages, Vibrant Village Programme has been started.

          Our remote and faraway islands like Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep were also deprived of development. My government has developed modern facilities on these islands too. Roads, air connectivity and high speed internet facilities have been provided there. Just a few weeks ago, Lakshadweep was also connected with underwater optical fiber. This will benefit the local population as well as tourists.

          Under the Aspirational Districts Programme, our government has laid emphasis on development of more than hundred districts of the country. In the wake of its success, the government has also launched the Aspirational Blocks Programme. Special focus is now being given on development of these blocks of the country which had lagged behind.

Honorable Members,

25. Today my government is building modern infrastructure along the entire border. This work should have been done long ago on priority basis. Be it terrorism or expansionism, our forces today are giving a befitting response.

          The tangible results of my government’s efforts to strengthen internal security are visible to us.

• There is a sense of security in Jammu and Kashmir today.
• The earlier deserted look of marketplaces due to strike has been replaced by the hustle and bustle of crowded markets.
• There has been significant reduction in the incidents of separatism in the North East.
• Many organizations have taken steps towards permanent peace.
• Naxal affected areas have shrunk and there has been a steep decline in Naxal violence.

Honorable Members,

26. This is the time for India to script the future for the coming centuries. Our ancestors have bequeathed us a legacy spanning thousands of years. Even today, we remember with pride the exceptional achievements of our ancestors. Today’s generation should also build a lasting legacy that will be remembered for centuries.

          Hence, my government is now working on a grand vision.

          This vision also has a programme for the next 5 years. It also has a roadmap for the next 25 years. For us, the vision of Viksit Bharat is not limited to economic prosperity alone. We are giving equal importance to social, cultural and strategic strengths. Without them, the development and economic prosperity would not be permanent. The decisions of the last decade have also been taken with this objective in mind. Many more steps are being taken keeping this goal in mind.

Honorable Members,

27. Today every agency in the world is assured of India’s rapid development. The assessments of the national and international agencies are based on India’s policies. Record investments in infrastructure and policy reforms are further boosting investors’ confidence. The preference of Indians for a stable and strong government with full majority has also renewed the confidence of the world.

          Today the world believes that only India can strengthen the global supply chain. That is why India is also today taking major steps in this direction. A strong network of MSMEs is being developed in the country.

          My government has started PLI schemes for 14 sectors. Under this scheme, production of around Rupees 9 lakh crore has taken place so far. This has generated lakhs of new employment and self-employment opportunities in the country.

          PLI is also benefiting the electronic, pharma, food processing and medical devices sectors. Production has started in dozens of projects related to medical devices. My government has also developed 3 bulk drug parks in the country.

Honorable Members,

28. Today Made in India has become a global brand. Now, the world is much enthused about our Make in India policy. The world is appreciating the objective of “Atma Nirbhar Bharat”. Today companies from all over the world are excited about the emerging sectors in India. This is illustrated by investment in the semiconductor sector. Electronics and automobile sectors also stand to benefit significantly from the semiconductor sector.

          My government is promoting green mobility in a big way. Lakhs of electric vehicles have been manufactured in the country in the last few years alone. We have now taken steps even for manufacturing of big aircrafts in India. Crores of new jobs will be created in the manufacturing sector in the coming days.

Honorable Members,

29. Today world over, there is a special demand for products which are environment friendly. That is why my government is emphasizing on Zero Effect Zero Defect. We are now giving a lot of focus to green energy.

• In 10 years, non-fossil fuel based energy capacity has increased from 81 Gigawatt to 188 Gigawatt.
• During this period, solar power capacity has increased by 26 times.
• Similarly, Wind power capacity has doubled.
• We are placed at fourth position in the world in terms of Renewable Energy Installed Capacity.
• We are ranked fourth in Wind Power capacity.
• We are at fifth position in Solar Power capacity.
• India has set a target of achieving 50 percent of its electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030.
• In the last 10 years, 11 new solar parks have been built. Today, work is in progress on 9 solar parks.
• Just a few days ago, a new scheme for solar rooftop installations has been launched. 1 crore families will be provided assistance under this scheme. This will also reduce people’s electricity bills and surplus electricity generated will be purchased in the power market.
• Work is also being done at a very fast pace in the field of nuclear energy. My government has approved 10 new nuclear power plants.
• India is also progressing at a fast pace in the field of Hydrogen energy. So far, we have started two projects in Ladakh and Daman-Diu.
• My government has done unprecedented work in the field of Ethanol. The country has achieved the target of 12 percent Ethanol blending. The target of 20 percent ethanol blending is also going to be accomplished very soon. This will increase the income of our farmers. Till now, government companies have procured Ethanol worth more than Rupees one lakh crore. All these efforts will reduce dependence on foreign countries for our energy needs. Just a few days ago, oil production has started in a new block in the Bay of Bengal. This is a big achievement for the country.

Honorable Members,

30. The quantity of important minerals in the earth is limited. That is why my government is encouraging circular economy. India’s first ‘Vehicle Scrappage Policy’ also seeks to achieve this aim.

          It is also important to explore prospects of minerals through deep sea mining. Deep Ocean Mission has been started with this goal in mind. This mission will also better our understanding of marine life. India’s ‘Samudrayaan’ is engaged in research on this.

          My government is engaged in making India a major space power in the world. It is a means to improve human life. Besides, this also attempts to increase India’s share in the space economy. Major decisions have been taken to expand India’s space programme. This has led to the formation of many new space startups. The day is not far when India’s Gaganyaan will reach space.

Honorable Members,

31. My government has made India one of the world’s leading digital economies. This has provided employment to crores of youth.

          It is our endeavour that India remains at the forefront of the world in the fourth industrial revolution.

          My government is working on Artificial Intelligence mission. This will provide new opportunities to the youth of India. This will open avenues for new startups. This will bring revolutionary changes in the fields of agriculture, health and education.

          My government has also approved the National Quantum Mission. Quantum computing will develop a new age digital infrastructure. Now work is in progress to ensure that India remains ahead in this.

Honorable Members,

32. My government is continuously taking new initiatives for the education and skill development of India’s youth. For this, a new National Education Policy was framed and is being implemented rapidly.

          In the National Education Policy, emphasis has been laid on education in mother tongue and Indian languages. Teaching of subjects like engineering, medical, law has been started in Indian languages.

          To provide quality education to school students, my government is working on more than 14,000 ‘PM Shri Vidyalayas’. Out of these, more than 6000 schools have started functioning.

          The dropout rate in the country has reduced due to efforts of my government. The enrolment of girls in higher education has increased. Enrolment of Scheduled Caste students has increased by about 44%, that of Scheduled Tribe students by more than 65% and that of OBC by more than 44%.

          Under Atal Innovation Mission, 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs have been established to promote innovation. More than 1 crore students are involved in it.

          There were 7 AIIMS and less than 390 medical colleges in the country upto 2014, while, in the last decade 16 AIIMS and 315 medical colleges have been established.

          157 nursing colleges are also being established.

          In the past decade, the number of MBBS seats has more than doubled.

Honorable Members,

33. Tourism is a big sector providing employment to the youth. In the last 10 years, my government has done unprecedented work in the field of tourism. Along with the number of domestic tourists in India, the number of foreign tourists coming to India has also increased.

          The reason for the growth in the tourism sector is owed to India’s growing stature. Today the world wants to explore and know India. Apart from this, the scope of tourism has also increased due to excellent connectivity. Building of airports at various places is also advantageous. Now, North East is witnessing record tourist arrivals. Now there is heightened excitement about Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.

          My government has laid emphasis on the development of pilgrimage destinations and historical sites across the country. This has now made pilgrimage in India easier. At the same time, there is a growing interest in the world towards heritage tourism in India. In the last one year 8.5 crores of people have visited Kashi. More than 5 crores of people have visited Mahakaal. More than 19 lakh people have visited Kedar Dham. In the 5 days of “Pran Pratishtha” 13 lakh devotees have visited Ayodhya Dham itself. There is unprecedented expansion of facilities at pilgrimage sites in every part of India, East-West-North-South.

          My government also wants to make India a leading destination for meetings and exhibitions related sectors. For this, facilities like Bharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi have been created. In near future, tourism will become a major source of employment.

Honorable Members,

34. We are strengthening the sports economyto connect the country’s youth with skills and employment. My government has given unprecedented support to sports and sportspersons. Today India is moving towards becoming a great sporting power.

          Along with the players, today we are also emphasizing on other areas related to sports. Today National Sports University has been established. We have developed dozens of Centers of Excellence in the country. This will provide youth an opportunity to choose sports as a profession. All kinds of assistance is also being provided to the sports goods industry.

          In the last 10 years, India has successfully organized international sports events related to many sports.

          ‘Mera Yuva Bharat’ Organization has been formed to motivate our youth to contribute for building a ‘Viksit Bharat’ and to instill among them a sense of duty and spirit of service. So far, about 1 crore youth have joined this initiative.

Honorable Members,

35. We have seen the advantage of having a strong government during a period of upheaval. The world has been in a turmoil in the last 3 years. There are many conflicts raging in different parts of the world. My government has established India as a Vishwa-Mitra in these difficult times. It is because of India’s role as Vishwa-Mitra that we have become the voice of the Global South today.

          In the last 10 years, another conventional way of thinking has been changed. Earlier, events related to diplomacy were confined to the corridors of Delhi. My government has ensured direct participation of the public in this also. We saw a great example of this during India’s G-20 presidency. The way India connected the G-20 with the public was unprecedented. The world was introduced to the real potential of India through programmes held across the country. Jammu and Kashmir and North East witnessed such big international events for the first time.

          The whole world appreciated the historic G-20 Summit held in India. The unanimous adoption of the Delhi Declaration even in a fractured environment is historic. India’s vision from ‘women led development’ to environmental issues has become the basis of the declaration.

          Our efforts to secure permanent membership of the African Union in the G-20 have also been appreciated. During this conference, the development of India – Middle East – Europe Corridor was announced. This corridor will further strengthen India’s maritime capability. The launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance is also a big event. Such steps are expanding India’s role in solving global problems.

Honorable Members,

36. Even in this era of global disputes and conflicts, my government has firmly placed India’s interests before the world. The scope of India’s foreign policy today has gone far beyond the constraints of the past. Today India is a respected member of many global organizations. Today India is a leading voice in the world against terrorism.

          Today India responds strongly and takes initiatives for the humanity caught in crises. Wherever there is a crisis in the world today, India tries to respond promptly. My government has instilled new confidence in Indians working across the world. Wherever crisis occurred, we have evacuated every Indian safely through campaigns like Operation Ganga, Operation Kaveri, Vande Bharat.

          My government has made continuous efforts to propagate the Indian traditions of Yoga, Pranayam and Ayurveda to the entire world. Last year, representatives of 135 countries did yoga together at the United Nations Headquarters. This is a record in itself. My government has set-up a new Ministry for development of Ayush. The World Health Organization’s first Global Centre for Traditional Medicine is being established in India.

Honorable Members,

37. There come junctures in the history of civilizations, which shape the future for the coming centuries. There have been many such defining moments in the history of India also.

          This year, on January 22, the country witnessed a similar epochal moment.

          After waiting for centuries, Ram Lalla has now been enshrined in his grand temple in Ayodhya.

          This was a matter of aspirations and faith for crores of our countrymen and the resolution of this has been accomplished in a harmonious manner.

Honorable Members,

38. You all represent the aspirations of crores of Indians. The dreams of the youth in schools and colleges today are completely different. It is the responsibility of all of us to leave no stone unturned to fulfill the dreams of the Amrit generation. Viksit Bharat will fulfill the dreams of our Amrit generation. For this, we all have to work together to achieve success in this endeavour.

Honorable Members,

39. Respected Atal ji had said—

अपनी ध्येय-यात्रा में,

हम कभी रुके नहीं हैं।

किसी चुनौती के सम्मुख

कभी झुके नहीं हैं।

          My government is moving ahead with the guarantee of fulfilling the dreams of 140 crore countrymen.

          I have full faith that this new Parliament House will continue to give strength to India’s aspirational journey and create new and healthy traditions.

 Many friends will not be in this House to witness the year 2047. But our legacy should be such that the future generations remember us.