President Droupadi Murmu’s address to a joint sitting of Parliament on January 31, 2025, marked the commencement of the Budget Session, setting the tone for the upcoming discussions and fiscal planning. The session, running from January 31 to April 4, will see the Union Budget presented on February 1.
In her speech, President Murmu highlighted several key initiatives and successes of the government. She announced the expansion of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, which will now provide homes for an additional three crore families, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring affordable housing for all. Another major step in welfare was the extension of Ayushman Bharat health insurance to include six crore senior citizens aged 70 and above.
Addressing the economic landscape, President Murmu stated that India is poised to become the world’s third-largest economy, driven by rapid governance reforms and infrastructure projects. She pointed to the completion of the Udhampur-Baramulla-Srinagar Rail project, which will connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari, a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to improve national connectivity.
Further reinforcing the government’s focus on youth and employment, the President emphasized the creation of permanent jobs and the expansion of educational opportunities. With over 200,000 permanent jobs created in the past two years, she highlighted the government’s Rs 2 lakh crore package for youth development, along with initiatives like the National Internship Programme and education reforms focusing on regional languages.
President Murmu also underscored the achievements in women empowerment, noting the success of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and the historic passage of the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam,' granting women reservation in Parliament and state assemblies. Additionally, she celebrated the role of women in leadership, sports, and other sectors.
On the space front, she announced that India’s Gaganyaan mission, which will send an Indian astronaut into space, is progressing, alongside the country's ambition to establish its own space station.
Highlighting India’s strides in digital technology, the President pointed to the country’s growing metro network, which now exceeds 1,000 kilometers, and the government’s focus on digital infrastructure to drive social justice and inclusivity.
As the Budget Session unfolds, President Murmu’s address set a clear agenda focused on inclusive growth, digital innovation, and social welfare, all crucial for India’s continued rise on the global stage.
