President Droupadi Murmu delivered a compelling address to the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament at the commencement of the Budget Session, spotlighting the transformative economic reforms that have fortified India’s growth trajectory over the past decade.
She emphasised that despite global uncertainties, India has emerged as the fastest-growing major economy worldwide, owing to robust policy measures and reform initiatives aimed at empowering its citizens, especially the poor and middle class.
“Over the past 11 years, the economic foundation of the country has grown significantly stronger,” President Murmu stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining inflation control and enhancing the income, savings, and purchasing power of Indian families. She credited these outcomes to deliberate economic policies that have ensured inclusive growth amid challenging international conditions.
A key highlight of her speech was the government’s “Reforms Express” agenda, which seeks to modernise and streamline regulations to meet the evolving needs of the economy. “Everyone has witnessed how the historic next-generation reform in GST filled the citizens with enthusiasm. This reform ensured savings of one lakh crore rupees for citizens,” she noted, pointing to the remarkable surge in two-wheeler registrations crossing two crore in 2025 as a testament to increased consumer confidence.
The President also lauded the sweeping overhaul of the Income Tax law, describing it as a “historic decision” that exempts income up to 12 lakh rupees from taxation. “These reforms are providing unprecedented benefits to poor and middle-class families. It has also given a new impetus to the country’s economy,” she remarked, highlighting how fiscal relief measures are boosting discretionary income and economic activity.
Addressing labor reforms, President Murmu explained the consolidation of numerous labor laws into four comprehensive Codes designed to protect worker rights while simplifying compliance. “With the emergence of many new sectors in the country, it is equally important to safeguard the interests of workers… From these reforms, the country’s youth and women in particular will benefit significantly,” she added, signaling the government’s focus on inclusive labor welfare.
The President further underscored India’s commitment to green growth and technological advancement.
She highlighted investments flowing into the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and data centers, which demand increased energy capacity. “Nuclear energy has a major role to play in this direction,” she said, praising the recently enacted SHANTI Act aimed at achieving 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy by 2047.
Additionally, she pointed to the rapid expansion of solar energy through initiatives like the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which has enabled nearly 20 lakh rooftop solar installations, resulting in increased electricity generation and reduced bills for households. “With all these efforts, India will definitely achieve the target of 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by the end of this decade,” the President asserted.
President Murmu’s address resonated as a clarion call for sustained economic reforms, inclusive growth, and environmental stewardship. Her emphasis on reform-driven progress sets an optimistic tone for the Budget Session, reflecting India’s readiness to navigate future challenges while prioritizing the welfare of its citizens and the nation’s long-term prosperity.
