President Ram Nath Kovind 
Key Highlights
- he time of social distancing has brought us close to each other: President Ram Nath Kovind
- India will continue to march ahead on path of progress and secure its rightful place, befitting its potential in global community: President
- President said patriotism strengthens the sense of duty among citizens
New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind addressed the nation on Tuesday on the eve of the 73rd Republic Day and remembered the great freedom fighters and praised the countrymen for remaining united despite the COVID-19 pandemic creating havoc.
In an attempt to boost the spirit of people during the pandemic, the president said the COVID crisis has also made us appreciate how we all Indians are connected as one family.
The time of social distancing has brought us close to each other. We have realised how much we depend on each other, President Kovind stressed.
“It is this spirit of unity and of being one nation that’s celebrated every year as Republic Day. This year’s celebrations may be muted due to the COVID-19 pandemic but the spirit is as strong as ever,” the president said in his address to the nation on the eve of Republic Day.
While touching on the COVID-19 pandemic issue, the president praised the countrymen for showing indomitable spirit to tackle the disease. He appealed to the people to not be complacent against coronavirus and continue to follow guidelines and wear masks and maintain social distancing at public places.
“I am proud to say that we have shown an unmatched resolve against coronavirus. We must remain alert and not let our guard down against coronavirus; precautions have to be continued,” President Kovind said.
“Crores of our people have transformed the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and the COVID vaccination drive into mass movements. A great deal of credit for the success of such campaigns goes to our dutiful citizens. I am sure that our people will continue to strengthen the campaigns of national interest with their active participation and will demonstrate the same dedication,” he added.
Acknowledging the medical fraternity for its immense contribution in the challenging times, the president said doctors, nurses and paramedics have risen to challenge, working long hours in difficult conditions even at the risk of their lives to help the people.
President Kovind recalled Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’ contribution towards India’s freedom struggle and showing indomitable courage and mobilising Indians against British rule.
“Two days ago, on January 23 all of us observed the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose who had adopted the energising salutation of ‘Jai Hind’. His quest for independence and his ambition to make India proud inspire all of us,” President Kovind said.
The president stressed that the diversity and vibrancy of our democracy is appreciated worldwide.
President Kovind expressed confidence in the country’s youth to take the nation forward.
India is an ancient civilisation but a young republic. For us, nation-building is a constant endeavour. Our youth have taken advantage of these opportunities and set new benchmarks of success. I am sure that with this energy, confidence and entrepreneurship, our country will continue to march ahead on the path of progress and will definitely secure its rightful place, befitting its potential, in the global community, the president said in his speech.