President’s Address to the Nation on the Eve of Independence Day 2026
New Delhi, August 14, 2026: On the eve of Independence Day, the President extended warm greetings to the people of India and said the country is moving ahead with the vision of building a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.
The President paid tribute to the freedom fighters and recalled the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in India’s freedom struggle and nation-building. She also remembered the victims and displaced people of Partition on Partition Horrors Remembrance Day.
Highlighting India’s progress over the past decade, the President said the country has witnessed rapid and inclusive development, expansion of infrastructure, digital transformation and greater financial inclusion. She noted that millions of people have benefited from initiatives related to poverty alleviation, food security, healthcare and agriculture.
The President highlighted India’s digital infrastructure and the rapid growth of digital payments, along with the expansion of highways, railways, waterways and airways. She said these developments are creating new opportunities for investment, entrepreneurship and employment.
On the economy, the President said India continues to remain among the world’s fastest-growing major economies despite global instability and conflicts. She also emphasized the importance of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, renewable energy and environmental protection.
The President stressed that women and youth are central to India’s development. She praised the growing participation of women in education, entrepreneurship, agriculture, sports, defence and leadership. She also highlighted the achievements of women’s self-help groups and the Lakhpati Didi initiative.
Describing young people as India’s most valuable asset, the President said India’s youth are making significant contributions through startups, innovation, technology, sports, space exploration and self-employment. She also emphasized the need for transparent and trustworthy public examination systems.
The President praised India’s armed forces and security personnel for their dedication and recalled the country’s military achievements, including Kargil Vijay Diwas and Operation Sindoor. She said India has sent a firm message against terrorism and described the progress towards making India free from Naxalism as a major achievement.
On environmental protection, the President called upon citizens to preserve natural resources for future generations. She encouraged people to participate in initiatives such as “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” and LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).
The President concluded by emphasizing that the true meaning of India lies not merely in its land but in its people. She called upon every citizen to contribute to the collective national effort to transform independent India into a developed India.
The President extended her Independence Day greetings to all citizens and concluded her address with: “Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”
