New Delhi: President Pranab Mukherjee's address to the Parliament focussed on the BJP government's efforts to eradicate poverty , revive the farm sector, create infrastructure in rural areas, housing for all and job growth.
In a speech lasting over an hour, the President devoted a large chunk of time to the farm and rural sector, indicating that the general Budget to be presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley s likely to focus on these two crucial segments.
Mukherjee said the guiding principles of the government were "garibon ki unnati, kisaano ki samriddhi" (poverty eradication, farmers' prosperity) and "yuvaon ko roz gar (job creation for youth)".
The President's speech outlined that the BJP govenment's focus is on "Sabka Vikas, beyond just advancement that dominates headlines", hinting that the Budget is expected to focus on financial inclusion and social security.
The address skipped reference to big economic reforms or key reform legislations hinting at a significant shift in the Centre's thinking which is likely to reflect in the Budget.
The President also reminded MPs, "India is a haven of stability in an increasingly turbulent global economy. GDP growth has increased making India world's fastest growing economy among large economies." The raging debate on nationalism also found an echo. Urging lawmakers to embrace the ideals of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, he quoted him: "Nationalism is inspired by the highest ideals of the human race: Satyam, Shivam Sundaram."