Her remarks on VB-G Ram G drew protest from Opposition MPs who stood on their seats and demanded that the law be withdrawn.
President Droupadi Murmu addressed the joint sitting of both Houses as the Budget Session of Parliament commenced on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The Budget Session will continue till April 2, 2026.
Addressing the joint sitting of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, President Droupadi Murmu began with highlighting the major national celebrations, including 150 years of Vande Mataram and the events related to the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.
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She said that commemorating the contribution of our ancestors inspires the new generation, which further speeds up our journey towards Viksit Bharat.
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“I am delighted to be addressing this session of the Parliament. Last year was memorable as the festival of India’s rapid progress and heritage…150 years of Vande Mataram is being celebrated across the country. The citizens are bowing before Bankim Chandra Chatterjee for this great inspiration. I congratulate all Parliamentarians that a special discussion was taken up in the Parliament for this,” she said.
In the address, the President said that India has strengthened its foundation in every sector in the last 10-11 years. “This year is a major base for our journey towards Viksit Bharat,” she said.
Emphasising the ideals of Bhimrao Ambedkar, Murmu said that her government is committed to equality and social justice.
“Babasaheb Ambedkar always laid emphasis on equality and social justice. Our Constitution too inspires us for the same. Every citizen of the country should get their full rights without any discrimination. My Government is committed to true social justice,” President Murmu said.
Murmu asserted that her government is working for the marginalised community, including Dalits, the backwards, tribal community and everyone with complete sensitivenss. “The vision of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas is becoming a positive impact on the lives of every citizen.”
She also pointed out the government’s efforts to expand the access to social security schemes. “At the beginning of 2014, social security schemes reached just 25 crore citizens. With the efforts of the Govt about 95 crore Indians have access to social security schemes now.”
For employment and development in rural areas, Murmu said the Viksit Bharat-G RAM G law that replaced the UPA-era MGNREGA, will gaurantee 125 days of employment.
Her remarks drew protest from Opposition MPs who stood on their seats and demanded that the law be withdrawn. NDA-BJP MPs thumped their tables in appreciation.
She also lauded Operation Sindoor against Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, saying India has proven that strength can be used responsibly and with wisdom.
“My Government gava strong message that the response to all attacks on India will be strong and decisive. Indus Water Treaty has been kept in abeyance, and this is a part of our fight against terrorism. To further strengthen the security system of our country, work is also being done on Mission Sudarshan Chakra,” she added.
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