President Ram Nath Kovind said that the past year has been a "watershed year" for women's empowerment in the armed forces, noting that the country's daughters have broken a glass ceiling and permanent commission has now been granted to women officers in new areas.
In an address to the nation on the eve of the 73rd Republic Day, he stated that the country's soldiers and security personnel are carrying on the legacy of national pride.
He also paid tribute to General Bipin Rawat, India's first Chief of Defence Staff, who died in a helicopter crash last month. The President referred to him as "one of the country's bravest commanders."
He said, "When a brave soldier dies on duty, the entire country feels sad. Last month, in an unfortunate accident, we lost one of the bravest commanders of the country - General Bipin Rawat - his wife and many brave soldiers. The entire country was deeply saddened by the tragic loss."
Women coming via Sainik Schools, according to the President, will strengthen the forces' talent stream.
"As the supreme commander of the Armed Forces, I am glad to note that it has been a watershed year for women empowerment in the Armed Forces. Our daughters have broken a glass ceiling, and the permanent commission has now been allowed for women officers in new areas. Also, the talent pipeline for the forces will be strengthened with women coming through Sainik Schools and the prestigious National Defence Academy. Consequently, our Armed Forces will benefit from better gender balance," he stated.
President Ram Nath Kovind stated that soldiers patrol the borders in the bitter cold of the Himalayas and the scorching heat of the desert, far from their loved ones.
"It is thanks to the constant vigil of the armed forces securing our borders and the police personnel maintaining internal security within the country that their fellow citizens enjoy a peaceful life," he added.
According to the President, patriotism improves citizens' feeling of duty.
"Whether you are a doctor or a lawyer, a shopkeeper or office-worker, a sanitation employee or a labourer, doing one's duty well and efficiently is the first and foremost contribution you make to the nation," he said.
