President Droupadi Murmu Addresses Nation On Eve Of 78th Independence Day

President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation on August 15, marking the eve of the 78th Independence Day. She extended her greetings to all citizens and expressed her joy over the preparations for this significant day. Highlighting the excitement of seeing the tricolour unfurl, she noted that this moment represents national pride and unity for over 1.4 billion Indians.

"Just as we celebrate various festivals with our families, we celebrate our Independence Day and Republic Day with our family which comprises our fellow citizens. On the 15th of August, in all parts of the country and also abroad, Indians participate in the flag-hoisting ceremonies, sing patriotic songs, and distribute sweets. Young children participate in cultural events. When we hear them talking about our great nation and about the privilege of being a citizen of it, we find in their words echoes of what our great freedom fighters used to say. Then we realise that we are part of a chain that binds the dreams of those who participated in the freedom struggle and the aspirations of those who will witness the nation regaining its full glory in the years to come," President Murmu said.

Honouring Freedom Fighters

The President paid tribute to freedom fighters, acknowledging their immense sacrifices and bravery. She mentioned how these patriotic souls took great risks to awaken India's spirit from centuries of slumber. "Realising that we are links of this chain of history is humbling. It makes us recall the days when the nation was under a foreign rule. Patriotic and brave souls took immense risks and made supreme sacrifices. We salute their memory. Thanks to their unceasing labour, the soul of India awoke from centuries of torpor," she added.

She also highlighted key figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Babasaheb Ambedkar, Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and many others who unified diverse traditions during India's freedom struggle. The President noted that all communities participated in this nationwide movement.

Celebrating Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

The President mentioned that India has begun celebrating Bhagwan Birsa Munda's birth anniversary as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. Next year's 150th birth anniversary celebrations will further honour his contributions to national re-awakening. She also noted that August 14 is observed as Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas to remember partition horrors where millions suffered forced migration and many lost their lives.

Successful General Elections

During her address, President Murmu praised India's Election Commission for successfully conducting this year's general elections with nearly 97 crore eligible voters participating. "As general elections were held in our country this year, the number of eligible voters stood at nearly 97 crore. This was a historic record, making it the largest electoral exercise humankind has ever witnessed. The Election Commission of India should be congratulated for the smooth and flawless conduct of such a gigantic event. I thank all officials and security personnel who braved the heat and helped electors," she said.

"When such a large number of people exercise their franchise, it is a resounding vote for the idea of democracy. India's successful conduct of elections strengthens democratic forces around the world," she added.

President Murmu concluded by emphasising how Independence Day celebrations unify Indians worldwide through flag-hoisting ceremonies, singing patriotic songs, distributing sweets, and cultural events involving young children.