Government Working Three Times Faster in Amrit Kaal Compared to Previous Administrations: President Murmu
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu, highlighting the achievements of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, stated on Friday that India’s development journey in this Amrit Kaal is being propelled with unprecedented achievements and new energy. She emphasized that in the government’s third term, the pace of work is three times faster than in previous administrations.
President Murmu was addressing the joint session of Parliament during the Budget Session. In her speech, she referred to various decisions taken on issues such as the Waqf Board and One Nation, One Election, stating that the country is witnessing the swift implementation of major decisions and policies. She expressed satisfaction over this progress.
Before commencing her address, President Murmu paid tribute to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. She also expressed condolences for the devotees who lost their lives in a stampede during Mauni Amavasya at the Prayagraj Mahakumbh. She described the Mahakumbh as a festival of India’s cultural tradition and social consciousness.
Major Announcements in the Address
President Murmu announced the expansion of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, under which three crore additional families will be provided new homes. A budget of ₹5.36 lakh crore has been allocated for this purpose. She highlighted that the government has tackled economic challenges, including policy paralysis, with strong determination.
She noted that despite global concerns such as the COVID-19 pandemic and war-like situations, the Indian economy has demonstrated resilience and stability, proving its strength. The government is prioritizing youth education and employment opportunities, with plans to provide internship opportunities to one crore young individuals in the top 500 companies. Additionally, a new law has been enacted to prevent paper leaks and ensure transparency in recruitment processes.
Kashmir and Northeast Development
The President stated that after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a new era of development. Both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections were conducted in a peaceful atmosphere. She also mentioned efforts to eliminate the sense of alienation among the people of the Northeast. The government has signed over ten peace agreements, bringing multiple militant groups onto the path of peace.
Cybersecurity and Digital Advancements
President Murmu underscored the threats posed by digital fraud, cybercrime, and deepfakes to national security and the economy. She stated that the government has taken several steps to counter cybercrimes and emphasized job opportunities in the cybersecurity sector. As a result of these efforts, India has now attained Tier-1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index.
She further highlighted that India is emerging as a major global player in digital technology. The introduction of 5G services and the success of India’s UPI technology have impressed several developed nations. Over 50% of the world’s real-time digital transactions are now taking place in India.
Infrastructure Development
Focusing on urban transport, President Murmu mentioned that work has commenced on the Rithala-Narela-Kundli Metro Corridor in Delhi, which will be one of the largest sections of the Delhi Metro network. She highlighted that in 2014, the metro network in Delhi-NCR was less than 200 kilometers, but it has now more than doubled.
She further announced that India’s metro network has surpassed the 1,000-kilometer milestone, making it the third-largest in the world.
Railway Expansion
President Murmu declared that the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Project has been completed, connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari via the railway network. She highlighted the construction of the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, as part of this ambitious project.
Middle Class and Social Welfare
Recognizing the contribution of the middle class, President Murmu stated that the government acknowledges and appreciates their role in national development. She emphasized efforts to secure fair prices for agricultural produce and increase farmers’ incomes.
The government has also decided to provide health insurance under the Ayushman Bharat scheme to six crore senior citizens aged 70 years and above. Additionally, the loan limit for small entrepreneurs under the MUDRA scheme has been raised from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh.
Government Employees and Wage Reforms
President Murmu announced the formation of the Eighth Pay Commission for government employees. She also revealed the government’s decision to ensure 50% guaranteed pension under the Unified Pension Scheme for millions of central government employees.
Employment and Defense Sector Growth
The President stated that in the last two years, the government has provided 10 lakh permanent government jobs, setting a record.
Highlighting achievements in the defense sector, she mentioned that India has recently inducted two indigenously built warships and a submarine into the Indian Navy. The establishment of Defense Industrial Corridors and encouragement for defense startups are boosting self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
Left-Wing Extremism and Security
President Murmu stated that the final phase of eradicating left-wing extremism has begun. Due to government efforts, the number of left-wing extremism-affected districts has been reduced from 126 to just 38.