President Murmu: Developed India Must Be Built on Native Languages

Indian President Droupadi Murmu emphasized that a strong, self-reliant, and developed India can only be constructed on the foundation of its native languages. Speaking at the sixth convocation of the Mahatma Gandhi International Hindi University in Wardha, Maharashtra, she urged every citizen to learn at least one Indian language in addition to their mother tongue. Murmu highlighted that a single stream of culture and consciousness flows through India's diverse linguistic landscape, fostering national unity. She referenced historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, noting their use of Hindi to promote patriotism during the freedom struggle. The President criticized remnants of a colonial 'slave mentality' and called for restoring the prestige of India’s knowledge traditions. She asserted that original thinking and invention thrive best in one's own language. While acknowledging the role of English, she prioritized Indian languages as essential for meaningful education and national identity, aligning with the goals of the National Education Policy. Her address encouraged students to take pride in their linguistic heritage while embracing multilingualism to strengthen social cohesion and cultural connectivity across the nation.