“This achievement belongs to every poor Indian”

In her first speech shortly after being sworn in as India's first president from a tribal community, Droupadi Murmu today asserted that her election "proves poor Indians cannot only dream but also fulfil aspirations."

Stating that she was honoured to take charge when India is completing 75 years of independence, Murmu (64) who is the youngest president of India, said she is the first president to be born in independent India.

"Reaching the Presidential post is not my personal achievement. It is the achievement of every poor in India. My election is evidence that the poor in India cannot just dream but also fulfil those dreams," she said.

Murmu, addressing an august gathering at the central hall of parliament where she was sworn in by Chief Justice of India N V Ramanna, also said it is a source of satisfaction for her that "those who have been deprived for centuries, who have been away from the benefits of development, those poor, downtrodden, backward and tribals are seeing their reflection in me."

She said her achievement belonged to every poor in India and was a reflection of the capabilities of crores of women.

"It is a coincidence that my political career started when the country was celebrating its 50th year of Independence. And today, in the 75th year of Independence, I have been handed this responsibility. I am honoured to take on this responsibility at a historic time when India is gearing up to achieve the vision of the next 25 years," she added.

Expressing her heartfelt gratitude to all MPs and all the members of the legislative assemblies for electing her to the highest constitutional post of the country, Murmu said: "Your vote is an expression of the faith of crores of citizens of the country."

Highlighting the interests of women and youth as matters of importance, she said she would strive to work for them during her term in office.

"This election of mine includes the blessings of the poor of the country, a glimpse of the dreams and potential of crores of women and daughters of the country," she said.

"Today, I assure all the countrymen, especially the youth of India and the women of India, that while working in this position, their interests will be paramount for me," said Murmu.

Murmu, who is the first member of Santal community to hold India's highest office, mentioned the contributions of the Santal rebellion and tribal leader Birsa Munda to Indian independence.

"From Santal revolution, Paika revolution to Kol revolution and Bhil revolution, the tribal contribution in the freedom struggle was further strengthened. We were inspired by the sacrifice of 'Dharti Aaba' Lord Birsa Munda ji for social upliftment and patriotism," she said.

Flagging the importance of environmental conservation, Murmu recalled her birth in the tribal tradition which has carried on life in harmony with nature for thousands of years.

"I have realised the importance of forests and water bodies in my life. We take necessary resources from nature and serve nature with equal reverence," she added.