Page 14 - NIS English 16-28 Feb, 2026

संंसंद
PARLIAMENT | Budget Session-2026

President’s Address
A Collective Commitment

to Further Strengthen

Good Governance

The first session of Parliament in 2026 began with an address by President Droupadi
Murmu. While the address vividly portrayed India’s development journey in recent
years, it also offered strong guidance for the future and expressed the confidence of
140 crore citizens. The address highlighted the continuous efforts being made for the
empowerment of farmers, youth, the poor, and marginalised sections of society. It
also reiterated New India’s collective commitment to accelerating the pace of reforms,
promoting innovation, and further strengthening good governance, reflecting the
shared resolve to build a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous nation. Presented here is
an edited excerpt of the address…

INSPIRATION FROM THE PAST: Celebrations are being
held across the country to mark 150 years of Vande
Mataram. The people of India are paying homage to
Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay for this profound
source of inspiration. The nation also celebrated the
350th anniversary of the martyrdom of Shri Guru Tegh
Bahadur Ji with deep reverence. During the 150th birth
anniversary year of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the nation
paid tribute to him, and the events associated with
Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary strengthened
the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. All citizens
also witnessed that the birth centenary celebrations
of Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika were imbued with
melodies and a spirit of national unity. When the citi-
zens of the country recall such great milestones of their
glorious past and the remarkable contributions of their
ancestors, it inspires the new generation.

POVERTY REDUCTION: During last decade, 25 crore
citizens have overcome poverty. During the third term
of my government, the campaign to empower the poor
has moved forward with greater momentum.

PUCCA HOUSES: During the last decade, 4 crore pucca
houses have been built for the poor. Possession of 32
lakh new houses has been given to the poor last year.

12 NEW INDIA SAMACHAR || February 16-28, 2026