According to a report in Economic Times, President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said that despite the pandemic-induced setbacks, the economy was “on the move again” and set to grow due to timely interventions by the central and state governments and “relentless focus on every sector”.
Addressing the nation on the eve of the Republic Day, Kovind said that it was a testimony to India’s spirit in the face of adversity that the economy was “projected to grow at an impressive rate this fiscal, after going through contraction last year”. He added that the performance had been possible due to the improvement in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
Recalling the “collective trauma” and the “harrowing” time several families went through during the pandemic, Kovind hailed the medical community for bravely rising to the challenge.
“Others have kept the nation moving, managing supply chains and utilities. The leadership, policymakers, administrators and others at the central and state levels have made timely interventions. Due to such interventions, the economy is on the move again,” said President Kovind.
“This shows the success of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan launched in the previous year. The government has shown relentless focus on reforming every economic sector and providing a helping hand wherever necessary,” he said.
Kovind referred to the National Education Policy as a key step towards creating the right environment to reap the demographic dividend.
Kovind underlined the salience of Fundamental Duties. “Rights and duties are two sides of the same coin. The observance of the Fundamental Duties, mentioned in the Constitution, by the citizens creates the proper environment for enjoyment of Fundamental Rights,” said President Kovind.
Kovind also expressed grief at the tragic loss of General Bipin Rawat. (Economic Times)
