New Delhi (India) August 14: President Droupadi Murmu addressed the country on the eve of 80th Independence Day. She lauded the nation for being growth-oriented. 

“On the eve of Independence Day, I would like to congratulate everyone. In a few hours, the auspicious commencement of the 80th year of the country's independence will take place,” she said.

Public Exam Reforms To Curb Paper Leaks

Murmu said that the Union government is taking holistic reforms so that all public examinations become transparent, secure and credible to eliminate paper leaks and unfair practices entirely.

"Public examinations become gateways to opportunities for our students. The government is undertaking comprehensive steps to reform these examinations. The objectives of these reforms are to completely curb the use of unfair means in public examinations, make the examination system more transparent, more secure, and more trustworthy for the youth," she said.

Operation Sindoor Showcases India's Security Strength

The President drew attention to national security, the "unmatched valour" of its armed forces and India's capabilities in executing precision counter-terror operations with example of 'Operation Sindoor'. The operation also sent a clear and firm message to terrorists and their supporters that their acts will have severe consequences, she added. 

Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty for the benefit of farmers of this country was termed as a "decisive move" made in the nation's interest. With regards to internal security, she said achieving the goal of making India free of Naxalism was a milestone, as areas hit by Left-wing extremism were developing and more people are participating in social development. 

"For decades, Naxalism posed a serious challenge to the nation. Making India Naxal free is a major achievement. Today, enthusiasm prevails in the areas once affected by Naxalism," she said

Viksit Bharat 2047 Driven By Growth

The nation is heading for 'Viksit Bharat 2047' guided by its economic robustness, digital development and empowerment of youth and women, Ms Murmu noted, adding that despite ongoing international disputes and economic volatility, the country remained the fastest growing major economy, whereas Atmanirbhar Bharat, had built solid fundamentals in economics and national security.

"Even in such trying circumstances, our economy is moving ahead as the fastest growing major economy in the world. According to economic projections, the growth rate of the Indian economy is expected to be more than twice the average global growth rate. Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan' has further strengthened the foundation of our economic progress and national security," she said.

Murmu Highlights Khelo India Initiative

She pointed out sports can play a significant role in nurturing the country’s young citizens and fostering nation-building through the flagship 'Khelo India' initiative.

“Under the Khelo India programme, a sports ecosystem is being developed across the country, from the grassroots to the national level. The government is making unprecedented investments to promote sports, yielding remarkable leaps in the achievements of our sportspersons in international tournaments," she said.