President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday asserted that India has sent a clear message to the world that any act of terrorism will be met with resolute and decisive action, saying the valour of the Indian armed forces was evident during Operation Sindoor, when terror camps were destroyed using indigenous capabilities.
Addressing a joint sitting of Parliament to mark the beginning of the Budget Session, the President said India had demonstrated that power can be exercised with responsibility and wisdom. “The world has seen the valour and courage of Indian armed forces through Operation Sindoor. Our nation, on the strength of our own resources, destroyed terror camps,” she said, amid loud desk-thumping by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and members of the treasury benches.
Murmu said the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty was also part of India’s broader fight against terrorism. She added that the government is working on Mission Sudarshan Chakra to further strengthen national security, while security forces have also taken firm action against Maoist violence. Following Operation Sindoor, she said, trust in Indian defence platforms has increased globally.
Highlighting the government’s social agenda, the President said her government remained committed to “true social justice” and empowering the poor. She said nearly 95 crore citizens are now covered under social security schemes, and around 25 crore people have moved out of poverty over the past decade.
Murmu also said the government has succeeded in tackling corruption and scams, ensuring better utilisation of public funds. “In the last 10–11 years, India has strengthened its foundation in every sector,” she said, describing the period as one marked by major achievements and transformative experiences.
Referring to national commemorations, the President said celebrations marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur and the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda inspired the younger generation and strengthened the journey towards Viksit Bharat (Developed India). She also mentioned events linked to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Bhupen Hazarika, saying they reinforced the spirit of unity and Ek Bharat, Shresht Bharat.
However, her reference to the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) scheme triggered sharp protests from Opposition benches. Murmu said the scheme would guarantee 125 days of work, curb corruption and leakages, and provide a boost to rural development.
Opposition members raised slogans demanding rollback of the Act, forcing the President to briefly pause her address. The Opposition has sought restoration of MGNREGA in its original, rights-based form, while the government maintains that the new legislation strengthens the rural employment guarantee framework.
