President Droupadi Murmu (centre) and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal (left) at the convocation ceremony of the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) in New Delhi. Photo: X/@PiyushGoyal

New Delhi:

President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday approved gallantry awards to 93 armed forces personnel, including two Kirti Chakras and 14 Shaurya Chakras on the eve of Republic Day.

The Kirti Chakras — India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award — have been awarded to Major Manjit from 22 Rashtriya Rifles, and posthumously to Naik Dilwar Khan, 28 Rashtriya Rifles.

The president approved 14 Shaurya Chakras, including three posthumously.

The Shaurya Chakra awardees are Major Ashish Dahiya 50 RR, Major Kunal 1 RR, Major Satender Dhankar 4 RR, Captain Deepak Singh 48 RR (Posthumous) and Assistant Commandant Eshenthung Kikon, 4 Assam Rifles.

Subedar Vikas Tomar, 1 Para, Subedar Mohan Ram, 20 JAT Regiment, Havildar Rohit Kumar Dogra (Posthumous), Havildar Prakash Tamang 32 RR, Flight Lieutenant Aman Singh Hans, Corporal Dabhi Sanjay Hiffabai Essa, Vijayan Kutty G (Posthumous), Vikrant Kumar, Deputy Commandant of CRPF and Jeffrey Hmingchullo, Inspector, CRPF were also conferred Shaurya Chakras.

The defence ministry said President Murmu approved gallantry awards to 93 armed forces and central armed police forces personnel.

“These include two Kirti Chakras, including one posthumous; 14 Shaurya Chakras, including three posthumous; one Bar to Sena Medal (gallantry); 66 Sena Medals, including seven posthumous; two Nao Sena Medal (gallantry) and eight Vayu Sena medals (gallantry),” it said.

The President also approved 305 defence decorations to Armed Forces and other personnel.

These include 30 Param Vishisht Seva Medals, five Uttam Yudh Seva Medals, 57 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, 10 Yudh Seva Medals, one Bar to Sena Medals (Devotion to Duty), 43 Sena Medals (Devotion to Duty), eight Nao Sena Medals (Devotion to Duty), 15 Vayu Sena Medals (Devotion to Duty), four Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal and 132 Vishisht Seva Medals.

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New Delhi:

President Droupadi Murmu lauded the Indian Army for its pivotal role in ensuring national security and fostering peace in the country during the 77th Army Day celebrations.

The President highlighted the Army’s invaluable contribution to the nation’s progress and prosperity, stating that their efforts have created a secure and peaceful environment.

Army Day, observed annually on January 15, marks the foundation of the Indian Army and symbolises India’s military independence. It commemorates the historic moment in 1949 when General Sir Francis Butcher, the last British Army Chief of India, handed over command to Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, who became the first Indian Chief Commander of the Legion of Merit.

The theme for the 77th Army Day celebrations is “Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena.”

In a statement, the President conveyed her warm greetings to the Army, acknowledging its courage and professionalism in defending India’s borders.

“The courageous army personnel have consistently displayed extraordinary courage and high standards of professionalism in defending our borders. The Indian Army has been involved in anti-terrorism operations and has been instrumental in containing terrorism,” the statement read.

“A grateful nation pays tribute to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives in service of the nation. The nation is indebted to them and their families. I wish the Indian Army continued success in all its endeavours and convey my best wishes to its gallant soldiers, veterans and their families,” it added.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his admiration for the Indian Army’s “indomitable courage, valour, and selfless service” on the occasion.

He extended his heartfelt greetings to all soldiers, officers, and their families, stating that Army Day provides an opportunity to honour their invaluable contributions to national security and integrity.

The Defence Minister highlighted the Army’s unparalleled role in “guarding the borders of the country but is also making an unparalleled contribution in the field of disaster management, peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance.”

He described the Indian Army as “a symbol of pride and confidence for every Indian.”

Rajnath Singh underscored the Army’s importance as one of the key pillars of national security and its incomparable role in nation-building. He expressed satisfaction with the Army’s preparedness to address all forms of threats, “whether traditional or unconventional and its vital contribution to India’s emergence as a Viksit Bharat.”

He noted the Army’s rapid adoption of modern technology and its commitment to promoting indigenisation through self-reliance. He lauded its efficiency, discipline, and patriotism, which have brought glory to India on the global stage.

The Defence Minister also paid homage to the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the nation. He emphasised that their courage and dedication have ensured a secure future for the country.

In his message, he described the Indian Army as a symbol of unity, courage, and devotion to duty, saluting its unwavering commitment to the nation.

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New Delhi:

President Droupadi Murmu on Friday paid tribute to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives defending Parliament during the 2001 terror attack and said the nation remained deeply grateful to them.

Reiterating India’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism, Ms Murmu said the nation stood united against the forces of terror.

Terrorists of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed attacked the Parliament complex on this day in 2001, killing nine people.

All five terrorists were gunned down by the security forces.

“I pay my humble tribute to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives defending our Parliament on this day in 2001. Their courage and selfless service continue to inspire us. The nation remains deeply grateful to them and their families,” the president said in a post on X.

“On this day, I reiterate India’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism. Our nation stands united against the forces of terror,” she added. 

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Puri:

Invoking the blessings of the ‘God of the Ocean’ (Varuna) for all-round development of the country, President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said she was confident that the Indian Navy will continue to ensure maritime security of the country.

Droupadi Murmu, the supreme commander of the country’s defence forces, said this while gracing the Navy Day celebration at the Blu Flag Beach in Odisha’s Puri.

“I am confident that the Indian Navy will continue to ensure maritime security, essential for Viksit Bharat by 2047,” the President said.

Droupadi Murmu said with 63 ships being built in India, the Navy’s focus to be an ‘Atmanirbhar’ force by 2047 provides inspiration to all of us to pursue innovation in ‘Mission Mode.’ The President praised the Navy’s efforts in empowering women and acknowledged its pivotal role in India’s victory in the 1971 war. She also lauded the Navy’s growth and capabilities, noting that India’s maritime history spans over 5,000 years.

While wishing all personnel of the force on the occasion of Navy Day, the President said the day is observed to celebrate India’s glorious victory in the 1971 war and commemorate the selfless service and supreme sacrifices made by naval personnel in defence of the Motherland.

The President commended the Navy’s pioneering efforts in providing appropriate growth avenues to ‘Nari Shakti’ and noted that it was the first service to induct women Agniveers.

Droupadi Murmu said two women naval officers – Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa – provide the best example of this new paradigm, as they circumnavigate the globe in INSV Tarini as part of the ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama II’.

Droupadi Murmu was among thousands of spectators at the action-packed Navy Day celebrations, where the Indian Navy showcased its maritime capabilities, air power, and operational excellence.

This event, marking the first Navy Day celebration on the eastern coast, featured an impressive operational demonstration by its personnel, highlighting the strength and versatility of India’s naval fleet. The occasion commemorates the strategic victories during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

The celebrations began with Hawk AJTs (also known as ‘Phantoms’), multi-purpose trainer aircrafts, performing a ground attack maneuver in an arrowhead formation. Marine Commandos (MARCOS) demonstrated their combat skills, including an impressive hostage rescue operation, while the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and Chetak helicopters added to the show.

Women cadets performed a traditional Horn Pipe Dance, and advanced fighter jets like the MIG-29K and Hawk aircraft displayed their aerial dominance. The event also highlighted Odisha’s historical maritime significance.

In all, 15 warships, 37 aircraft, and a submarine participated in the operation demonstration, featuring breathtaking maneuvers such as aerial dominance by fighter jets, Combat Free Falls, slithering operations by MARCOS, submarine displays, and rocket firing by warships.

The grand evening concluded with the Beating Retreat Ceremony by the Eastern Naval Command Band, followed by a Continuity Drill, and an impressive Drone and Laser show. 

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New Delhi:

President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended their greetings to the citizens on the occasion of Diwali on Thursday.

“On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, I extend my greetings and best wishes to all Indians living in India and abroad,” President Murmu said in a post on social media platform X.

In her message to the citizens, the President said: “Deepawali is a festival of happiness and joy. It is a celebration of the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm by various communities and classes in India and abroad. This festival spreads hope for a bright future.”

“On the auspicious occasion of Deepawali, we should resolve to enlighten our conscience and adopt good attitudes like love, compassion and social harmony. This festival is also an opportunity to help the deprived and the needy and share happiness with them. Let us take pride in the glorious culture of India by believing in goodness and take a pledge to build a healthy, prosperous and sensitive society and celebrate a pollution-free Deepawali,” she added.

Prime Minister Modi also took to X to extend his best wishes on Diwali. In a post, he said: “Many happy wishes to the countrymen on Deepawali. On this divine festival of lights, I wish everyone a healthy, happy and prosperous life. May everyone prosper with the blessings of Maa Lakshmi and Lord Shri Ganesha.”

Home Minister Shah also extended his greetings to the people. “Heartiest greetings to all countrymen on the festival of lights, Diwali. May this festival of lights bring new energy, health and prosperity in the lives of all of you,” he posted on X.

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New Delhi:

President Droupadi Murmu offered her condolences on Thursday to the family of businessman Ratan Tata.

Mr Tata, Chairman Emeritus, Tata Sons, passed away at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday evening.

Paying her tributes to the business titan in a post on X, President Murmu said, “In the sad demise of Ratan Tata, India has lost an icon who blended corporate growth with nation building, and excellence with ethics.”

President Murmu highlighted Tata’s contributions to philanthropy and charity calling them as “invaluable.”

In the sad demise of Shri Ratan Tata, India has lost an icon who blended corporate growth with nation building, and excellence with ethics. A recipient of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan, he took forward the great Tata legacy and gave it a more impressive global presence.

“He inspired seasoned professionals and young students alike. His contribution to philanthropy and charity is invaluable,” she said.

“I convey my condolences to his family, the entire team of the Tata Group and his admirers across the globe,” the post added.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences on the demise of Ratan Tata and said he was “extremely pained” by his passing away.

“Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom.

He endeared himself to several people thanks to his humility, kindness and an unwavering commitment to making our society better. Extremely pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family, friends and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

Mr Tata, born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, was the Chairman of Ratan Tata Trust and Dorabji Tata Trust, two of the largest private-sector-promoted philanthropic trusts in India. He was the Chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, from 1991 until his retirement in 2012.

He was honoured with the country’s second-highest civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan, in 2008.

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New Delhi:

President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday greeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 74th birthday and wished that his innovative efforts pave the way to make India a developed nation.

PM Modi was born on September 17, 1950 in a small town in Gujarat.

“Hearty congratulations and best wishes to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji on his birthday. On the strength of your personality and work, you have provided extraordinary leadership and increased the prosperity and prestige of the country,” the president said in a post on X in Hindi.

“I wish that your innovative efforts with the spirit of nation first pave the way to make India a developed nation. I pray to God that you live long and always remain healthy and happy,” she wrote.

PM Modi was sworn-in as India’s prime minister for the third time on June 9, 2024. 

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Warananagar (Maharashtra):

President Droupadi Murmu on Monday urged women to understand the importance of education, learn new technologies, give importance to environment conservation in daily life, help the needy, and always be ready to contribute to the development of the country.

In her remarks at the golden jubilee celebration of the Shri Warana Women Cooperative Group at Warananagar in Maharashtra’s Kolhapur district, she said that our individual and collective efforts will make India reach a higher position on the world stage.

President Murmu also said that the real secret of the success of any enterprise is its association with the common people. That’s why a democratic system and transparency are important for the success of cooperatives, she said, adding that in cooperative institutions, the interests of their members should be paramount.

It should always be kept in mind that no cooperative institution should become a means of personal interest and profit-making for any individual, otherwise, the very purpose of the cooperative will be lost, she stressed.

There should be real cooperation in cooperatives rather than anyone’s monopoly.

The President also said that cooperation is the best medium for making good use of the strength inherent in society.

“Principles of cooperation follow the spirit of justice, unity, and fraternity envisaged in the Constitution. When people of different classes and ideologies unite for cooperation, they get the benefit of social diversity. Cooperatives have played an important role in the economic development of the country. Household brands like Amul and Lijjat Papad are examples of such cooperatives,” she added.

The President said that if today India is the world’s largest milk producer, cooperative groups have made a significant contribution to this success. In almost all states, cooperatives mainly produce and distribute milk products. Not only milk, cooperative institutions are playing an important role in areas like fertilisers, cotton, handloom, housing, edible oil, and sugar.

She lauded cooperative institutions for making a significant contribution to poverty alleviation, food security, and management of natural resources.

“But in these rapidly changing times, they need to change themselves. They should use technology as much as possible and also make the management more professional,” President Murmu said.

She noted that many cooperatives are facing problems like lack of capital and resources, governance and management, and low participation, and said that connecting more and more youth to cooperatives can be important in this direction. Youth can transform those institutions by incorporating technology in governance and management, she said.

The President also advised cooperative institutions to explore new areas like organic farming, storage capacity building, and eco-tourism.

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New Delhi:

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose reached Delhi on Monday night amid speculations that he may meet President Droupadi Murmu and senior leaders.

There have been massive protests in West Bengal and a strike by doctors across the country in the wake of the rape-murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata and allegations of a botched probe and cover-up.  

The governor on Thursday visited the hospital and spoke to the agitating junior doctors, assuring them of justice.

Governor Bose is likely to meet President Murmu in Delhi on Tuesday.

Speaking during a Rakhi celebration programme at Raj Bhavan in Kolkata earlier in the day, where several women doctors and others tied rakhis around his wrists, Mr Bose pledged to support their efforts until the goal of a safer environment for women is achieved.

“In West Bengal, democracy is degenerating. This cannot go on,” Mr Bose said. He urged collective action to safeguard women, saying, “Today, we have to take a pledge to protect our daughters, sisters.”

Mr Bose emphasised the need for societal change, stating, “Our society should become a place where women feel happy and secure. We have failed in our mission to our sisters. This is the minimum a civilised society should do.” “My responsibility as a governor is to serve the people. I know the goal is far and the road is long, but the march is on. We will certainly reach our destination. I am with you, I am for you,” Governor Bose said.

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