“Honouring Our Ancestors Fuels the Path to Viksit Bharat,” President Murmu Tells Parliament

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said that remembering the contributions of the nation’s ancestors inspires the younger generation and strengthens India’s resolve to emerge as a developed nation. Addressing the joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha at the start of the Budget Session, she underlined the role of history, values and shared memory in shaping the country’s future.
The President said that collective remembrance of those who shaped the nation provides direction and motivation to today’s youth, accelerating the journey towards Viksit Bharat. She noted that India’s recent commemorative events have reinforced a sense of unity and purpose across the country.
Highlighting key national observances, President Murmu referred to the commemoration of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, describing it as a moment that reminded citizens of courage, sacrifice and moral strength. She also recalled the nationwide observance of the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, which she said brought renewed attention to his contribution and the rich heritage of tribal communities.
The President further pointed to events marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, stating that these celebrations strengthened the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat and reinforced the idea of national integration. She added that the birth anniversary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika resonated across the country, filling it with music and a shared sense of cultural unity.
Her address formally marked the beginning of the Budget Session of Parliament. During the session, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to table the Economic Survey on January 29, followed by the presentation of the Union Budget on February 1. This will be her ninth consecutive budget presentation, a first in India’s parliamentary history.
The Budget Session follows an all party meeting held earlier in the week, during which leaders discussed the agenda and key issues expected to be taken up. Political parties expressed their views and conveyed their willingness to cooperate to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament during the session.