Focusing on India’s achievements in the digital sector, she said, “More than half of the total number of digital transactions in the world takes place in India. These developments have created a vibrant digital economy whose contribution to the country’s GDP is increasing year on year”.Looking ahead, the President highlighted India’s ambitions in the field of artificial intelligence, “As we aspire to become a global-AI-hub by 2047, our focus will remain on making the best use of the advances in technology for the common people, to improve their lives by improving governance.”She stressed the importance of inclusive development, stating, “Development serves the purpose only when it helps those on the margins and opens new opportunities for them. Moreover, we are increasing our self-reliance in every area possible. This has added to our self-confidence and increased the momentum of our journey towards becoming Viksit Bharat”.Reflecting on the historical significance of 15th August, she said, “15th August is a date etched in Indians’ collective memory.” Despite challenges, she praised India’s transition into a strong democracy, “India had the oldest republics in the world. It is rightly acknowledged as the mother of democracy. When we adopted the Constitution, it provided the edifice of democracy. We built democratic institutions that strengthened the practice of democracy. We prize our Constitution and our democracy above everything else”.She noted the government’s initiatives for youth development, and commended Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey to the International Space Station, calling it an inspiration to the younger generation.On women’s empowerment, she stated, “Our daughters are our pride. They are breaching barriers in every field, including in the areas of defence and security. Sports are among important indicators of excellence, empowerment and potential.” She cited the example of two Indian women – one 19 and the other 38 – who were finalists in the FIDE Women’s World Cup in chess, adding, “With ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’, the empowerment of women is no longer a slogan but a reality.”She expressed optimism about India’s future, “India is moving ahead at a faster pace towards realising its true potential.”She affirmed that this journey is underpinned by sustained good governance and a strong stance against corruption. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, she reminded the nation, “Corruption and hypocrisy ought not to be inevitable products of democracy,” and called upon citizens to take a pledge to uphold Gandhi’s vision and eliminate corruption.
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