President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday hailed the success of Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, underscoring the nation’s resolve, defence self-reliance, and unity on the eve of the 79th Independence Day.
Addressing the nation, the President condemned the “cowardly and utterly inhuman” killing of innocent citizens, asserting that the armed forces had demonstrated “strategic clarity and technical capability” in neutralising terrorist infrastructure across the border.
“I believe Operation Sindoor will go down in history as an example in humanity's fight against terrorism,” she said, describing it as a testament to India’s growing military self-reliance.
President Murmu emphasised that the country’s unity was the most “befitting response” to those attempting to sow division. She noted that multi-party parliamentary delegations had engaged foreign governments to explain India’s stance on cross-border terrorism. “…the world has taken note of India's stance, that we will not be the aggressor, but we will not hesitate to retaliate in defence of our citizens,” she said.
She highlighted Operation Sindoor as a milestone for the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in defence manufacturing, asserting that indigenous production had reached a critical level of self-sufficiency. “These are landmark achievements in India's defence history since Independence,” she added.
Turning to governance and social development, the President reiterated the importance of “zero tolerance for corruption” and invoked Mahatma Gandhi’s statement that “corruption and hypocrisy ought not to be inevitable products of democracy.” She urged citizens to pledge to realise Gandhiji’s ideal and eliminate corruption.
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She also reflected on the Swadeshi spirit, linking National Handloom Day celebrations and campaigns like ‘Make-in-India’ to promoting Indian artisans and self-reliance. “Let us resolve to buy and use Indian products,” she said.
President Murmu spoke about technological progress, particularly artificial intelligence, highlighting the India-AI mission aimed at making India a global AI hub by 2047. “Artificial intelligence is the next stage of technological advancement and has already entered our lives... our focus will remain on making the best use of the advances in technology for the common people, to improve their lives by improving governance,” she said.
On development, the President stressed that progress is meaningful only when it benefits marginalised communities, improves ease of living, and opens opportunities for all. “Moreover, we are increasing our self-reliance in every area possible. This has added to our self-confidence and increased the momentum of our journey towards becoming Viksit Bharat,” she said.
Reflecting on India’s digital revolution, she noted widespread 4G coverage, large-scale adoption of digital payments, and the success of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), positioning India as a global leader in digital transactions. She also praised healthcare reforms under the ‘Ayushman Bharat’ scheme, which has extended coverage to over 55 crore people, including all citizens aged 70 and above.
The President offered a sombre reflection on Partition, observing Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas, paying tribute to victims of violence and displacement. She further lauded India’s democratic journey, highlighting constitutional pillars of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
“Every person is equal and deserves to be treated with dignity, and everyone should have equal access to healthcare, education, and opportunity. Those who have been at a traditional disadvantage need a ‘helping hand’,” she said, noting the nation’s extraordinary progress since 1947.
Looking ahead, President Murmu expressed optimism about India’s potential. “India is moving ahead at a faster pace towards realising its true potential,” she said, praising reforms and policies that create an “effective platform” for every citizen to contribute to national prosperity and happiness.
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