President Murmu highlights youth, women education, foreign policy in Independence Day eve address

President Droupadi Murmu delivered her Independence Day eve address on August 14, ahead of India's 80th year of independence. She highlighted that 65 per cent of the country's population is under 35 years old, calling youth India's most valuable asset. She cited a recent successful rocket launch by a team with an average age of 28 as evidence of youth talent and commitment.

Murmu also praised women's progress in education and economic participation. She noted that girls are performing impressively in academics, with women's economic self-reliance increasing through self-help groups with over 10 crore members. Under the Mudra scheme, approximately two-thirds of beneficiaries are women. She highlighted women's participation across sectors, from drone operators to fighter combat leaders in the air force.

The President also referenced the government's target of making 3 crore women 'lakhpati didis' (millionaires), underscoring broader initiatives for women's empowerment and economic independence.