Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 14: Youth, examination reforms, national security, economic resilience and India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047 were among the key themes of President Droupadi Murmu's address to the nation on the eve of the country's 80th Independence Day.

Addressing the nation on Thursday, President Murmu extended her greetings to citizens ahead of Independence Day and reflected on India's achievements, challenges and aspirations. She placed particular emphasis on the country's young population and the need to create greater opportunities for them.

A significant part of her address focused on public examinations and the concerns faced by students and job aspirants. President Murmu said examinations serve as gateways to opportunities and stressed the importance of making examination systems transparent, secure and reliable.

She highlighted efforts to prevent paper leaks and other unfair practices, emphasising the need to restore and maintain the confidence of young people in the examination system.

Describing India's youth as important architects of the country's future, the President also highlighted the growing culture of entrepreneurship and self-employment. She noted the contribution of young entrepreneurs to India's expanding start-up ecosystem.

Sports also featured in her address, with Murmu pointing to initiatives such as Khelo India and the development of sporting infrastructure as important avenues for identifying and nurturing young talent.

National security was another major focus of the President's speech. Referring to India's recent security challenges, she underlined the preparedness and capabilities of the country's armed forces.

Murmu highlighted Operation Sindoor as an important demonstration of India's military strength and reiterated that terrorism and threats to national security would be dealt with firmly.

She also referred to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty in the context of India's national interests, stressing the importance of balancing economic development with national security and strategic preparedness.

On the economic front, the President expressed confidence in India's growth trajectory despite continuing uncertainty in the global economy. She highlighted India's economic performance and its expanding role in the digital economy.

India's leadership in real-time digital payments was also highlighted as an example of the country's rapid digital transformation.

The broader objective, she said, remains the creation of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, when India will complete 100 years of Independence.

President Murmu emphasised that achieving this vision would require the collective efforts of every section of society, including students, entrepreneurs, soldiers, workers, athletes and ordinary citizens.

As India enters its 80th year of Independence, the President's message centred on confidence, vigilance and collective responsibility, with a call to strengthen institutions, expand opportunities for young people, safeguard national security and work towards a prosperous, inclusive and developed India by 2047.