Budget Session 2026: President Murmu Highlights Operation Sindoor, Manufacturing Surge, Social Security Expansion

President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday outlined the Centre’s priorities and achievements as she addressed a joint sitting of Parliament at the start of the Budget Session 2026, stressing national security, economic self-reliance, manufacturing growth and expanded social security coverage.

Her address came amid opposition protests but focused on what the government described as a decade of structural transformation and a roadmap towards Viksit Bharat.

Operation Sindoor and national security

The President said Operation Sindoor sent a clear message that India would respond with “resolute and decisive action” to any terror attack. She added that confidence in Made-in-India defence platforms has grown significantly after the operation.

She also referred to:

• India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty as part of its counter-terror strategy

• Ongoing efforts under Mission Sudarshan Chakra to strengthen defence systems

• The government’s push towards the complete eradication of Maoist terror

Defence production and exports

President Murmu said India’s defence production crossed ₹1.5 lakh crore in 2025, while defence exports exceeded ₹23,000 crore, both record highs.

Manufacturing and self-reliance push

Highlighting industrial growth, the President said:

• India has become the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer globally

• Investments worth nearly ₹2 lakh crore have been attracted under the PLI scheme

• Electronics production has increased six-fold over the past decade, reaching ₹11 lakh crore

She also announced that 10 microchip manufacturing units are expected to begin operations soon, with steps underway to enter nano-chip manufacturing.

Social security and poverty reduction

The President said social security coverage has expanded from 25 crore people in 2014 to nearly 95 crore citizens today, calling it a key pillar of “true social justice”.

She added that 25 crore Indians have moved out of poverty over the past decade and reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development under the Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas vision.

Women-led development

President Murmu highlighted women-centric initiatives, including:

• The government’s goal of creating 3 crore ‘Lakhpati Didis’

• The first batch of women cadets passing out from the NDA, calling it a milestone for women empowerment

• Continued focus on women-led growth across sectors

Agriculture, infrastructure and energy

On the rural economy, she said:

• India recorded over 350 million tonnes of foodgrain production, becoming the world’s largest rice producer

• The country is moving towards self-reliance in edible oils, oilseeds and pulses

• A new law, Viksit Bharat Gram Guarantee, will ensure 125 days of guaranteed rural employment

She also reaffirmed India’s target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by the end of the decade.

Space, AI and emerging risks

The President hailed astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s visit to the International Space Station as the start of a new phase in India’s space journey, noting progress towards a future Indian space station.

She also warned that the misuse of artificial intelligence, including misinformation and deepfakes, poses serious risks to democracy and social harmony.

Economic outlook

President Murmu said India remains the fastest-growing major economy, with inflation under control and major infrastructure gains, including:

• Over 70,000 km of national highways built in the Northeast

• Expansion of Vande Bharat train services, including the launch of sleeper versions

The Budget Session’s first phase runs from January 28 to February 13, with the Union Budget 2026-27 scheduled to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.