New Delhi: The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, addressed the nation on the eve of India’s 74th Independence Day. In his address, President said that the celebrations of Independence Day this year will be rather restrained due to coronavirus pandemic.
President Ram Nath Kovind said, “On this day, the youth of India should feel the special pride of being citizens of a free nation.”
President Kovind said that we fortunate that Mahatma Gandhi became the guiding light of our freedom movement.”
He also said that the central government, while anticipating the tremendous challenge, responded effectively and well in time. Highlighting the contributions of the corona warriors, President Kovind said that the nation is indebted to doctors, nurses and other health workers who have been continuously on the forefront of our fight against this virus. They risk their own lives to save our life and livelihood.
President Kovind said, “By introducing ‘Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana’, the government has enabled crores of people to earn their livelihood, and mitigate the impact of job-loss, dislocation and disruption caused by the pandemic.”
President also said, “In order to ensure that migratory ration card holders get ration anywhere in the country, all states are being brought under the coverage of ‘One Nation – One Ration Card’ scheme.”
He said, “Government has brought back more than 10 lakh Indians under the ‘Vande Bharat Mission’. Indian Railways has been operating train services, in these challenging circumstances, to facilitate travel and transportation of people and goods.”
Talking about the bravery of the Indian soldiers at the Galwan Valley, President Kovind said, “Our brave soldiers laid down their lives defending our borders. Those worthy sons of Bharat Mata lived and died for national pride. The entire nation salutes the martyrs of Galwan Valley. Every Indian feels grateful to their family members. Their bravery in combat has demonstrated that while we believe in peace, we are also capable of giving a befitting response to any attempt of aggression. We are proud of the members of our Armed Forces, paramilitary forces and police personnel who protect the borders, and ensure our internal security.”
He said, “The ‘National Education Policy’ spells a long term vision with far-reaching impact. It will strengthen the culture of ‘Inclusion’, ‘Innovation’ and ‘Institution’ in the sphere of education. Imparting education in the mother tongue has been given emphasis in order to help young minds grow spontaneously. This will strengthen Indian languages as well as the unity of the country. Youth empowerment is essential for building a strong nation. The ‘National Education Policy’ is a right step in this direction.”
President Kovind said, “Construction of the temple at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi has begun in Ayodhya. It was indeed a moment of pride for all. People of the country maintained restraint and patience for a long time and reposed unflinching trust in the judicial system. The issue of Ram Janmabhoomi was resolved through judicial process. All concerned parties and the people respectfully accepted the verdict of the Supreme Court and displayed before the world, Indian ethos of peace, non-violence, love and harmony. I congratulate all fellow citizens for their commendable conduct.”
President also said that the patience and wisdom being demonstrated by all of you in coping with the pandemic has been appreciated all over the world. I am confident that you will continue to maintain caution and act responsibly.
