President Addresses Joint Parliament
Posted On July 11, 2025
In a pivotal moment for the Indian democratic calendar, the President of India addressed the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament - the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha - at the commencement of the Budget Session earlier this year, on January 31, 2025. This address, a constitutional obligation, serves as a comprehensive overview of the government's achievements over the preceding year and lays down its vision, policy agenda, and legislative priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. Held in the august chambers of the newly constructed Parliament building, the address underscored the nation's progress across various sectors and articulated the government's roadmap for achieving a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047.
The President's address to the joint session is a deeply significant constitutional tradition, mandated by Article 87(1) of the Indian Constitution. It occurs twice- at the commencement of the first session after each general election to the Lok Sabha, and at the commencement of the first session of each year. This unique occasion brings together Members of Parliament from both Houses, senior government officials, and distinguished guests, providing a formal platform for the Executive to communicate its broad policy framework to the Legislature and the nation. While the address is delivered by the President, the text is prepared by the Union Cabinet, making it effectively the government's policy statement and a reflection of its direction.
The January 31, 2025 address, delivered by President Droupadi Murmu, commenced with a reiteration of India's democratic ethos and constitutional values, setting a tone of national pride and collective endeavor. The President acknowledged the 75th anniversary of the adoption of India's Constitution, emphasizing its enduring strength and guiding principles. She also paid tribute to the framers of the Constitution, particularly Babasaheb Ambedkar, reinforcing the nation's commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. The address underscored the government's unwavering focus on inclusive development, touching upon various segments of society, including the poor, middle class, youth, women, and farmers, thereby reflecting a commitment to 'Antyodaya' (upliftment of the last person).
A significant portion of the address was dedicated to highlighting the government's economic achievements and its vision for sustained growth. The President noted India's continued emergence as one of the fastest-growing major economies globally, consistently maintaining robust growth rates amidst global economic uncertainties. She emphasized the government's focus on capital expenditure, infrastructure development, and structural reforms aimed at boosting investment, job creation, and overall economic resilience. Specific mention was made of the advancements in digital infrastructure, with India leading in digital payments and 5G rollout, positioning the nation as a global leader in digital technology and innovation.
Key social welfare initiatives and human development programs formed another central theme of the President's speech. The address highlighted the expansion and impact of flagship schemes such as-
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)- The President announced plans to provide an additional three crore homes under this scheme, reaffirming the government's commitment to 'Housing for All.'
Ayushman Bharat Scheme- The extension of health insurance coverage to six crore senior citizens aged 70 and above under this scheme was a major announcement, reinforcing access to quality healthcare for vulnerable populations.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi- The continued disbursement of financial assistance to millions of farmers underscored the government's focus on agricultural welfare and rural prosperity.
Mudra Scheme- The increase in loan limits for small entrepreneurs under the MUDRA scheme highlighted efforts to promote self-employment and support the MSME sector.
Education and Youth Empowerment- Initiatives like the PM Vidyalakshmi scheme for higher education and internship opportunities for youth were emphasized, signaling a commitment to skill development and employment generation. The new law to prevent paper leaks in recruitment exams was also cited as a step towards ensuring transparency and fairness.
Beyond domestic policy, the President also touched upon India's growing stature on the international stage. She highlighted the success of India's G20 presidency and its role in shaping global discourse on issues ranging from climate change to sustainable development. India's achievements in space exploration, including the Chandrayaan and Aditya missions, were cited as examples of the nation's scientific prowess and technological advancement, instilling a sense of national pride and ambition. The President also spoke about India's efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote peace and stability in a complex global environment.
The address also briefly touched upon several governance reforms and national initiatives. The government's continued focus on 'One Nation, One Election' and the amendments to the Waqf Act were mentioned, indicating ongoing efforts towards systemic improvements. The progress in integrating the Northeast region and transforming Jammu & Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 were also highlighted, projecting a vision of national unity and inclusive development across all regions.
The President's address is not merely a ceremonial formality; it sets the tone for the entire parliamentary session. Following the address, both Houses engage in a detailed "Motion of Thanks" debate, providing an opportunity for Members of Parliament across party lines to discuss the issues raised by the President, critique government policies, and suggest amendments. This robust parliamentary scrutiny ensures accountability and allows for a comprehensive discussion on the state of the nation and the government's direction.
In conclusion, the President's address to the joint Parliament on January 31, 2025, served as a comprehensive articulation of the government's progress and future agenda. It painted a picture of a confident and rapidly developing India, committed to inclusive growth, technological advancement, and a prominent role on the global stage. As the Parliament proceeds with its legislative business and budgetary deliberations, the themes outlined in the President's address are expected to guide the national policy discourse for the year ahead, laying the groundwork for India's continued journey towards becoming a developed nation.
The President's address to the joint session is a deeply significant constitutional tradition, mandated by Article 87(1) of the Indian Constitution. It occurs twice- at the commencement of the first session after each general election to the Lok Sabha, and at the commencement of the first session of each year. This unique occasion brings together Members of Parliament from both Houses, senior government officials, and distinguished guests, providing a formal platform for the Executive to communicate its broad policy framework to the Legislature and the nation. While the address is delivered by the President, the text is prepared by the Union Cabinet, making it effectively the government's policy statement and a reflection of its direction.
The January 31, 2025 address, delivered by President Droupadi Murmu, commenced with a reiteration of India's democratic ethos and constitutional values, setting a tone of national pride and collective endeavor. The President acknowledged the 75th anniversary of the adoption of India's Constitution, emphasizing its enduring strength and guiding principles. She also paid tribute to the framers of the Constitution, particularly Babasaheb Ambedkar, reinforcing the nation's commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. The address underscored the government's unwavering focus on inclusive development, touching upon various segments of society, including the poor, middle class, youth, women, and farmers, thereby reflecting a commitment to 'Antyodaya' (upliftment of the last person).
A significant portion of the address was dedicated to highlighting the government's economic achievements and its vision for sustained growth. The President noted India's continued emergence as one of the fastest-growing major economies globally, consistently maintaining robust growth rates amidst global economic uncertainties. She emphasized the government's focus on capital expenditure, infrastructure development, and structural reforms aimed at boosting investment, job creation, and overall economic resilience. Specific mention was made of the advancements in digital infrastructure, with India leading in digital payments and 5G rollout, positioning the nation as a global leader in digital technology and innovation.
Key social welfare initiatives and human development programs formed another central theme of the President's speech. The address highlighted the expansion and impact of flagship schemes such as-
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)- The President announced plans to provide an additional three crore homes under this scheme, reaffirming the government's commitment to 'Housing for All.'
Ayushman Bharat Scheme- The extension of health insurance coverage to six crore senior citizens aged 70 and above under this scheme was a major announcement, reinforcing access to quality healthcare for vulnerable populations.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi- The continued disbursement of financial assistance to millions of farmers underscored the government's focus on agricultural welfare and rural prosperity.
Mudra Scheme- The increase in loan limits for small entrepreneurs under the MUDRA scheme highlighted efforts to promote self-employment and support the MSME sector.
Education and Youth Empowerment- Initiatives like the PM Vidyalakshmi scheme for higher education and internship opportunities for youth were emphasized, signaling a commitment to skill development and employment generation. The new law to prevent paper leaks in recruitment exams was also cited as a step towards ensuring transparency and fairness.
Beyond domestic policy, the President also touched upon India's growing stature on the international stage. She highlighted the success of India's G20 presidency and its role in shaping global discourse on issues ranging from climate change to sustainable development. India's achievements in space exploration, including the Chandrayaan and Aditya missions, were cited as examples of the nation's scientific prowess and technological advancement, instilling a sense of national pride and ambition. The President also spoke about India's efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote peace and stability in a complex global environment.
The address also briefly touched upon several governance reforms and national initiatives. The government's continued focus on 'One Nation, One Election' and the amendments to the Waqf Act were mentioned, indicating ongoing efforts towards systemic improvements. The progress in integrating the Northeast region and transforming Jammu & Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 were also highlighted, projecting a vision of national unity and inclusive development across all regions.
The President's address is not merely a ceremonial formality; it sets the tone for the entire parliamentary session. Following the address, both Houses engage in a detailed "Motion of Thanks" debate, providing an opportunity for Members of Parliament across party lines to discuss the issues raised by the President, critique government policies, and suggest amendments. This robust parliamentary scrutiny ensures accountability and allows for a comprehensive discussion on the state of the nation and the government's direction.
In conclusion, the President's address to the joint Parliament on January 31, 2025, served as a comprehensive articulation of the government's progress and future agenda. It painted a picture of a confident and rapidly developing India, committed to inclusive growth, technological advancement, and a prominent role on the global stage. As the Parliament proceeds with its legislative business and budgetary deliberations, the themes outlined in the President's address are expected to guide the national policy discourse for the year ahead, laying the groundwork for India's continued journey towards becoming a developed nation.
