Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 14: On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu delivered a powerful and heartfelt address to the nation, touching on national security, development, and environmental responsibility.

Condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of innocent tourists, President Murmu called it “cowardly and utterly inhuman.” She praised the armed forces for their swift retaliation through Operation Sindoor, which she hailed as a “historic moment in India’s fight against terrorism.”

“Our forces showed exceptional strategic clarity and technical capability. Operation Sindoor demonstrated our resolve and the growing strength of indigenous defence systems under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative,” she said.

The President also acknowledged the united political front India presented internationally, with parliamentary delegations explaining India’s stance to the world.

“We are a peace-loving nation, but we will not hesitate to respond decisively in defence of our people,” she declared.

Shifting focus to development, President Murmu highlighted India’s rapid progress in digital payments, agriculture, and urban transformation. She cited the AMRUT scheme and expansion of 4G services as key drivers of inclusive growth across rural and urban landscapes.

On climate change, she struck a deeply reflective tone. “We must rethink our relationship with nature — with our rivers, forests, and fellow species. Our survival depends on living in harmony with the planet,” she urged.

In closing, she extended warm greetings to citizens, the armed forces, diplomats, judiciary, civil servants, and the Indian diaspora. “Let us move forward with compassion, courage, and collective resolve,” she said, calling for unity as the foundation of a strong, resilient India.