NEW DELHI: In her maiden address to the nation, India President Droupadi Murmu on the eve of Independence Day talked about India's vibrant democracy,  Atmanirbhar Bharat, the success story of Covid-19 vaccines and growth of the India’s economy after the pandemic.

It is a cause for joy "not only for all of us but also for every advocate of democracy around the world," the President said on Sunday.

"When India attained independence, many world leaders and authorities had concerns about the viability of its democratic system of government. They had their reasons to be doubtful. The only countries with democracies at the time were those with developed economies. India was characterised by poverty and illiteracy after being exploited for so long by foreign rulers. But we Indians disproved the skeptics. In this soil, democracy not only flourished but also gained ground "said the President.

President Murmu said that #AzadikaAmritmahotsav festival is dedicated to the people of India.

"This Mahotsav also includes the determination to create "Atmanirbhar Bharat," which will be based on the success attained by the people. A series of activities hosted across the nation have attracted enthusiastic participation from citizens of all age groups, "Added she.

The President added when discussing the nation's progress with vaccinations: "In recent years, particularly during the Covid-19 outbreak, the world has witnessed the emergence of a new India. Everywhere has been grateful for our reaction to the pandemic. With vaccinations produced in the nation itself, we began the largest vaccination campaign in human history.

"We reached 200 crores in cumulative vaccine coverage last month. Our successes in the pandemic fight have surpassed those of many wealthy nations. We are appreciative of the work of our scientists, medical professionals, nurses, paramedics, and immunisation workers." The pandemic, according to the president, has destroyed businesses and uprooted lives all over the world.

"India got its act together and is now moving forward while the rest of the world has been struggling with the economic effects of the big crisis. One of the world's main economies with the fastest growth rates is India. The start-up ecosystem in India is one of the best in the world. The success of our nation's startups, particularly the rise in the number of unicorns, is a glaring evidence of our industrial development.

"For overcoming the global trend and promoting economic growth, the government and policymakers merit praise. In the last few years, physical and digital infrastructure development has made extraordinary strides" the president said.

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