In her Republic Day address, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the importance of the Constitution in shaping India's collective identity and progress. She also stressed on the need for inclusive growth, legal reforms, and national initiatives to promote equality and good governance. Additionally, President Murmu endorsed the "One Nation One Election" concept, citing its potential to streamline policies and prevent resource misuse.
India's Identity and Progress: President Murmu's Republic Day Address
In her Republic Day address on January 26, 2023, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the significance of India's Constitution in forging the nation's collective identity and propelling its progress.
Constitutional Framework
The Constitution, adopted in 1950, defines India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic. It enshrines the fundamental rights and duties of citizens, ensuring equality, freedom, and dignity for all. President Murmu highlighted the necessity of adhering to constitutional principles to preserve India's unity, diversity, and democratic ethos.
Inclusive Growth and Legal Reforms
The President also stressed the need for inclusive economic growth, where every citizen has opportunities to contribute and benefit from the nation's progress. She urged for legal reforms to address inequalities, improve access to justice, and foster a culture of good governance.
National Initiatives
President Murmu emphasized the importance of national initiatives that promote equality and unity. These include:
"One Nation One Election" Concept
President Murmu endorsed the "One Nation One Election" concept, which proposes holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha (national parliament) and state legislative assemblies. She argued that this concept could streamline election-related policies, reduce resource wastage, and strengthen the democratic process.
FAQs
What is the significance of President Murmu's Republic Day address?
A: It highlights the government's priorities and vision for the nation in areas such as constitutional adherence, inclusive growth, and good governance.
How does the Constitution shape India's collective identity?
A: The Constitution provides a common framework of values, principles, and rights that define who we are as Indians, regardless of our diverse backgrounds.
What are the benefits of inclusive economic growth?
A: Inclusive growth ensures that all citizens, including marginalized groups, have opportunities to participate in and benefit from economic development.
What are the potential advantages of "One Nation One Election"?
A: It could reduce election expenses, prevent political instability, and allow for better coordination between different levels of government.
What are some past events related to India's identity and progress?
A: Key milestones include the adoption of the Constitution, the establishment of linguistic states, the Green Revolution, and the liberalization of the economy in 1991.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched the Aam Aadmi Party's 'Budget' Patra campaign, emphasizing the savings of up to ₹35,000 per month for Delhi families under AAP's governance. Kejriwal warned that if the BJP came to power, they would discontinue all the welfare schemes implemented by AAP, such as free electricity, water, education, and bus travel. He also unveiled new initiatives, including benefits for women, students, and senior citizens, expected to further add ₹8,000-₹10,000 in monthly savings. AAP workers will visit households to fill out the 'Bachat Patra' and inform residents about the financial benefits provided by the party.
The Budget Session of Parliament started off with a controversy as Congress leader Sonia Gandhi made remarks about President Droupadi Murmu's address. The BJP demanded an apology, stating that the President was a tribal woman who should not be underestimated. However, Congress has defended Gandhi's statement, stating that she meant no disrespect and was only expressing empathy for the President's health. This incident has fueled tensions between the two political parties, further highlighting their ideological differences.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has strongly criticised Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for their recent comments towards India's first tribal woman President Droupadi Murmu. Referring to Sonia's remarks as "reprehensible" and Rahul's comment as "offensive," Majhi denounced their words as an insult to President Murmu and a direct attack on the tribal and marginalized communities she represents. He has called for a formal apology from the Congress leadership and has been joined by many political figures across the country in support of President Murmu.
President Murmu, in her joint address to Parliament, highlighted the government's initiatives for the tribal community, including the 'Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan'. She also reiterated the government's commitment to the middle class and reflected on the nation's constitutional journey, commemorating the recent 75-year milestones.
In a historic event, three Shankaracharyas from prominent Hindu Peeths released a 27-point 'Dharmadesh' at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. The directive highlights the importance of protecting the cow as the "Mother of the Nation" and calls for the recognition of religious education as a fundamental right of Hindus. The Shankaracharyas also extended their blessings to the UP government for successfully organising the grand event, which is expected to witness a footfall of around 40 crore pilgrims.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praises Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 10-year tenure, saying it marks the end of one era and the beginning of a new one. He predicts that India will become the world's 3rd largest economy by 2027, up from the previous 11th spot. Shah also shares data on the government's efforts to improve the lives of the public, including providing housing, sanitation, and healthcare. He highlights Modi's focus on cleanliness and the successful electrification of 2500 villages.
US President Donald Trump declared a national tragedy after a commercial American Eagle plane crashed into an Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River, resulting in multiple fatalities. The rescue efforts have now shifted to a recovery mission, with 27 bodies recovered so far and more expected to be found. While the cause of the crash is still unclear, Trump used the opportunity to criticize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and blamed previous administrations for their diversity hiring policies.
The Election Commission of India has demanded that former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal provide factual evidence for his allegation that Yamuna water has been poisoned. The Commission has given a deadline for Kejriwal to submit the evidence, and warned that if he fails to do so, appropriate action will be taken. Kejriwal has accused the Commission of being biased and has refused to comply with their demands.
As India celebrated the coming of its Constitution on 26 January 1950, there were polarizing sentiments among its citizens. While Nehru and Ambedkar led the country towards progress and democratic values, Hindu Nationalists were critical of the Constitution, citing its lack of connection to "Indian values". However, political events such as the Shah Bano case and the implementation of the Mandal Commission report gave way for Hindu nationalists to push their agenda, resulting in communal violence and discrimination against religious minorities, particularly Muslims. This has led to the spread of fear and the formation of Muslim ghettos in various cities across India.
A Pakistani court has dismissed a petition by Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation seeking to rename Shadman Chowk Lahore after the freedom fighter and place his statue there. The court upheld the decision of the local corporation, which cited a retired military officer's claim that Singh was a "criminal" and not a revolutionary. The foundation plans to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.