Guwahati; Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed strong appreciation for President Droupadi Murmu’s parliamentary address on January 31, praising its focus on the development of Northeast India and the government’s stance on tackling illegal immigration.
In his social media post, Sarma described the President’s speech as “comprehensive, relevant, and aspirational,” underlining the essential elements to achieve a “Viksit Bharat” or a developed India. He specifically commended the emphasis on promoting innovation and Artificial Intelligence (AI), calling it highly pertinent in today’s global context. “Rashtrapati Ji’s address to Parliament was comprehensive, relevant and aspirational. It had the essential ingredients to realise the aim of a Viksit Bharat,” Sarma wrote.
Sarma highlighted the government’s continued focus on regional development, noting, “What stood out was also the Modi Government’s continued thrust on harnessing the potential of the North East, combating the menace of illegal immigration, and efforts to reclaim our cultural legacy.” This, he said, aligns with the broader vision of fostering inclusive growth and regional empowerment.
In her speech, President Murmu echoed the importance of Northeast India, mentioning the first Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, an initiative that showcases the potential of all eight northeastern states. She emphasized the government’s overarching goal of achieving a “Viksit Bharat” through a “saturation approach” to development.
Murmu’s address also highlighted the government’s technological advancements, including the launch of the India AI Mission to establish the nation as a global innovation hub. On security, the President noted India’s Tier 1 status in the Global Cyber Security Index and the government’s efforts to combat digital threats like cybercrime, digital fraud, and deepfakes.
In healthcare, President Murmu cited the establishment of 1.75 lakh ‘Arogya Mandir’ facilities and the removal of custom duties on cancer medications. Additionally, in the aviation sector, she noted the record purchase of 1,700 new aircraft by domestic airlines.
The Budget session, which commenced with Murmu’s address, will continue until February 13 and reconvene on March 10, with various significant bills on the agenda, including banking law reforms, railway regulations, and disaster management protocols.