My election is proof that poor can dream big: President Droupadi Murmu

Hyderabad: The 15th President of India, Droupadi Murmu, in her first address to the nation, said the country has to vigorously plan for the next 25 years. India will complete 75 years of independence on 15 August 2022. The way ahead for the next 25 years is for the country to fulfil the expectations of the freedom fighters and citizens of Independent India.

"It is a great privilege to be given this responsibility to set a path to attain goals. We have two tracks – Sabka Prayas aur Sabka Kartavya (everyone's effort and everyone's duty). The new development journey towards the bright future of India has to be undertaken by our collective efforts, following the path of duty," the President said.

The nation is inspired and willing to change. The country is moving ahead in every field from 'Vocal to Local' to 'Digital India'. Indian youth play a key role in start-ups and numerous innovations and adoption of digital technology, she said.

The Covid-19 pandemic brought a lot of challenges, stated Murmu and added, "The completion of 200 crore doses of vaccine shows how these challenges can be deftly tackled."

The goal of India is to play a key role in global economic stability, ease of supply chain, and peace.

First President born in Independent India

Droupadi Murmu, born on 20 June 1958, is the first serving President to be born in Independent India.

"My election as the President of India is proof that the poor in India can have dreams and fulfil them too," Murmu said.

Her journey from a ward councillor to the President of India started in a small tribal area of Baidaposi in Rajrangpur, Odisha. She was the first daughter of her village to go to college. She is an Arts graduate from Rama Devi Women's College in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.

'Tribal tradition is to live in harmony with nature'

Sustainable planet is the buzzword as climate change is leading to a lot of challenges the world over. Ancient Indian traditions and a sustainable lifestyle are important to follow. Murmu said, "Growth and progress mean continuously marching ahead but awareness about one's past is equally important. I was born in that tribal tradition where we lived in harmony with nature."

There is a need to conserve natural resources, forests, and water bodies, she added.