President’s address

The 60th Republic Day celebration is the first in the history of the Indian Republic where a woman President took the salute in the ceremonial parade in New Delhi attended by the President of Kazakhstan as the guest of honour. This is also the first Republic Day celebration where the Prime Minister of the country could not be present due to his hospitalisation following a heart surgery. This is also the first Republic Day celebration where tightest security arrangements were made all over the country, particulary in the North Eastern States following intelligence report of possible terrorist attack by elements from across the border. However, the Republic Day celebration all over the country passed off without any incident with participation by the people in spite of terrorist threat and the usual boycott call given by the terrorist organisations in the North East led by ULFA. President Pratibha Devi Singh Patil addressed the nation on the eve of the Republic Day terming the day as the 60th milestone of the nation’s progress when achievements should be viewed with justifiable pride and focus on the short comings with a spirit of resolve.Referring to the terrorist strike in Mumbai, the President said that the terrorists wanted to damage the confidence of India. But contrary to what the terrorists had hoped, the event saw the emergence of a unified and strong voice in India. This has created a unique amalgam which transforms over one billion individuals of the country into over one billion strong resolve of one nation, she said. She asked the country to own up resposibilities in defeating terrorism and the international community to take decisive and united action to combat terrorism which poses a grave threat to the stability of the world. The President exhorted citizens to fight against divisive agendas like regionalism, sectarianism or caste consideration and work for an India in which our first identity would be Indian. The global economic melt down and the unethical manner of functioning of some companies causing losses to shareholders also received the attention of the President who urged for stronger corporate governance and accountability. She stressed on inclusive growth that brings within its ambit all regions and all people, development of basic infrastructure in the country including in the North-Eastern region. She laid emphasis on rural development which would be effective vehicle for balanced growth. As a woman President she showed empathy for the women of the country and would like empowerment of women through education and economic development and right to live with dignity and a right to be equal citizens of the country. The President’s address to the nation embraces all the major issues facing the nation and it was an inspiring address aimed at all sections of the people. sourcE: assam tribune