New Delhi, Jan 28: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Wednesday hailed President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the joint sitting of both houses of Parliament on the first day of the Budget session, describing it as a “visionary and inspiring” articulation of India’s developmental journey.

Pradhan said the President’s speech provided “new perspective and firm conviction” to the nation’s progress, particularly as India celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram. He noted that the President’s emphasis on the resolve for a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) during the Amrit Kaal highlighted achievements, priorities, and the roadmap for the future.

The Minister emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Union government has worked with sensitivity towards the welfare of the poor, farmers, youth, and women. He pointed to the expansion of social security schemes as a striking example of transformation, with beneficiaries rising from 250 million in 2014 to nearly 950 million citizens today.

“This remarkable expansion reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and social justice,” Pradhan said, adding that the President’s address strengthens national consciousness and confidence at a historic juncture.

The Minister further stressed that the President’s words serve as a clarion call for collective resolve to build a self-reliant, empowered, and developed India by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of independence.

Pradhan also said that the President’s message was not only a reflection of India’s achievements but also a guiding light for the nation’s aspirations in the coming decades.

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President Murmu, in her address, expressed confidence that the Parliament, the Government, and the citizens, together, will fulfil the resolve of Viksit Bharat. The citizens will move forward, according to the supreme importance of national interest and upholding Constitutional values, she said.