Bhubaneswar: In her first presidential address to the Odisha Assembly, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the importance of people’s representation, saying, “The people have sent you with many dreams. It is your duty to put a smile on their faces.”
“The government is in the hands of the people, and you are their representative. They sent you with so much hope and expectation. It is your duty to fulfill their hopes and dreams. You will do such work that will benefit the people. As a representative of the people, you are a known face in society. There is a need to know what your word and action are. Therefore, your behaviour and speech are very valuable. What you do, the people will follow,” Murmu advised.
She praised the increased representation of women in the Assembly, noting that a woman Speaker is leading the House.
Murmu highlighted Odisha’s potential, stating, “Odisha is full of all kinds of resources. Therefore, Odisha can be made a leading state.” She called for building a prosperous Odisha by 2036, urging legislators to take the state’s progress as a personal vow.
In a nostalgic tone, Murmu recalled her experiences as an MLA and Minister, saying, “I have asked questions as an MLA in this House. I have answered questions as a Minister in this House.” She expressed gratitude to Lord Jagannath, saying, “Without the blessings of Lord Jagannath, I would not have reached here.”
Murmu also paid tribute to Odisha’s historical figures, including Mahatab and Biju Patnaik, highlighting their contributions to the state’s development. Her address was a historic moment for the Odisha Assembly, inspiring legislators to work towards a developed India.
