Born on June 20, 1958, Droupadi Murmu is an Indian politician who is serving as the 15th President of India since July 25, 2022. She was born to a Santhal family in Uperbeda village in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district.
Despite being from a tribal community, she was the first girl in her village to go to college. Before politics, she worked as a clerk in the state irrigation and power department from 1979 to 1983 and then as a teacher at the Sri Aurobindo Integral Education Centre in Rairangpur.
Murmu made her political debut by winning an election to the Rairangpur Nagar Panchayat in 1997 and served as a councillor.
She was first elected to the Odisha assembly in 2000 and went on to become a minister of state for commerce and industry and the fisheries and animal resources development minister in the BJD-BJP coalition government. In 2004, she won a second term in the state assembly.
Murmu held various posts in the cabinet of the Government of Odisha between 2000 and 2004.
Prior to her presidency, she served as the 9th governor of Jharkhand between 2015 and 2021. She was the first woman governor of the state.
On the personal front, Murmu is a keen practitioner of meditation techniques of the Brahma Kumaris, a movement she embraced after she lost her husband, two sons, mother and brother in just six years between 2009-2015.
On this Special Report, Maria Shakil and Piyush Mishra analyze the expectations surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 13th budget. Maria Shakil highlights the consistent rise in social sector spending, noting that 'the projection is 73K, it is likely to go up again' for the Awaas Yojana residential scheme. Piyush Mishra, reporting from Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's residence, details potential reforms including a 50% hike in Kisan Samman Nidhi from ₹6,000 to ₹9,000 and a reduction in the Ayushman Bharat age limit from 70 to 60 years. The discussion covers the transition from the traditional briefcase to the digital budget and the political significance of these schemes ahead of assembly elections in five states. The bulletin outlines the customary pre-budget schedule, including the Finance Minister's meeting with President Droupadi Murmu before tabling the budget in Parliament at 11 AM, with a focus on providing relief to the common man and salaried individuals through increased standard deductions.
This news bulletin reports on Union Home Minister Amit Shah's sharp criticism of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during a rally in Dibrugarh, Assam. Shah accused the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha of disrespecting North-Eastern culture by allegedly refusing to wear a 'gamosa'—a traditional Assamese cloth of deep cultural significance—presented by President Droupadi Murmu during the Republic Day reception. Shah claimed that while every other dignitary accepted the 'gamosa' as a mark of respect, Rahul Gandhi did not. The Home Minister further 'vowed that as long as the BJP is in power, it will not allow any insult to the North-East culture.' The report highlights the escalating political tension over the incident, noting that it remains to be seen how the Congress leader will respond to these allegations regarding the cultural symbol of Assam.
On this special report, the focus is on the 78th death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, commemorated at Delhi's Rajghat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to the Father of the Nation, stating that Bapu's emphasis on 'Swadeshi' is a 'fundamental pillar of our resolve for a developed and self-reliant India.' The Prime Minister was joined by President Droupadi Murmu, the Defence Minister, and other senior cabinet members in honoring the Mahatma's legacy. During the event, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of non-violence for the protection of humanity and noted that Gandhi's personality and deeds continue to inspire the nation to walk the path of duty. The programme captures live images from Rajghat as the country observes Martyrs' Day, reflecting on the principles of 'Make in India' and self-reliance as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi.
On this Special Report, Gaurav Sawant provides expert commentary on the Beating Retreat ceremony held at Vijay Chowk, marking the culmination of Republic Day celebrations. Sawant highlights the significant shift towards 'decolonization' in the ceremony's music, noting that 'there's a lot of decolonization as the government puts it more Hindi music instrumental music started'. He explains the historical transition from the first ceremony attended by Queen Elizabeth II to the modern-day event presided over by President Droupadi Murmu. The report details the elite nature of the President's Bodyguard, describing them as paratroopers and tankmen who have served in major operations from the 1971 war to Siachen and Kargil. As Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi receive the President, Sawant captures the synergy of 'marching and melody' that defines this national tradition.
On this Special Report, Gaurav Sawant provides live commentary on the Beating Retreat ceremony held at Vijay Chowk, marking the formal end of Republic Day celebrations. Gaurav Sawant notes, 'Post 2014 and especially with Prime Minister Narendra Modi very keen on decolonization, now you have the Mridangam, you have the Dhol, you have the Tashe, you have the Nagade.' The report highlights the arrival of President Droupadi Murmu, escorted by the President's Bodyguard from the Ganatantra Mandap, formerly known as Darbar Hall. Sawant explains the military significance of the tradition where troops withdraw at sunset and weapons are symbolically sheathed. The ceremony features Indian classical compositions and military bands, including a special performance of Vande Mataram to mark its 150th year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, and the three Service Chiefs were present to receive the President at the majestic Raisina Hill setting.
In this address to the Honourable Members of Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu highlights the government's initiatives to preserve indigenous heritage, including the construction of a dedicated museum and the relocation of the Bir Narayan Singh Indigenous Independence Movement memorial in Chhattisgarh. She emphasizes the cultural milestone of translating the Indian Constitution into the Santali language to empower tribal communities. Regarding the nation's progress, she states, 'The goal of a developed India is not limited to a single government or a single generation.' Murmu also notes the global recognition of Indian traditions, citing UNESCO's inclusion of Deepavali in the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. She calls upon all representatives to remain united on issues of national interest, asserting that the decisions made today will shape the country's trajectory for years to come. The President concludes by describing the path toward a developed India as a collective journey of independence requiring the perseverance of the administration and citizens alike.
In her address to the Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted India's significant economic and infrastructural strides. She stated, 'My government has spent more than 25 lakh crores on the construction of modern infrastructure in the past few years,' emphasizing that this investment has generated substantial employment for the youth. The President noted that India has become the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, with nearly 2 lakh startups currently operational. She also lauded the expansion of Digital India and the 5G network across the country. Highlighting achievements in sports, she congratulated the women's cricket teams and announced that India has been tasked with hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Furthermore, she discussed the National Education Policy's role in fostering innovation through Atal Tinkering Labs and the government's commitment to making 1,000 ITIs future-ready under the PM Setu scheme to build an industry-ready workforce.
On this Special Report, President Droupadi Murmu addresses the progress of the nation, highlighting significant achievements in agriculture and women's empowerment. The President stated, 'My government has set up the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund for the modernization of the agricultural sector and better logistics development,' noting that over Rs 1.25 lakh crore in private investment has been attracted. The address emphasizes the mantra of 'Women-led Development,' citing that 10 crore women are now associated with self-help groups and the number of 'Lakhpati Didis' has surpassed two crore. President Murmu also touched upon national security, referencing 'Operation Sindoor' and the first batch of women cadets passing out from the National Defence Academy (NDA). The speech reaffirms India's decisive stance against terrorism and the ongoing work on 'Mission Sudarshan Chakra' to strengthen the country's defence framework.
On this Special Report, India Today Global’s Pranay Upadhyay provides an in-depth analysis of the landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed between India and the European Union. Highlighting the scale of the pact, Upadhyay notes, 'This is for the first time EU has entered such a wide spectrum deal with any other country and this is the biggest FTA done by India.' The discussion underscores the economic significance of the agreement, which involves a $25 trillion economy and affects approximately 2 billion people. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s briefing is cited, emphasizing that the deal is 'transformational' rather than just historic. A major focus remains on the textile sector, where Indian exports to the EU are projected to jump from $7 billion to $30 billion. The bulletin also covers the ceremonial conclusion of the EU delegation's visit, including a dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan for EU Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating political row between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) following the Republic Day celebrations. The BJP has accused Rahul Gandhi of 'disrespecting the culture and people of the North-East' by allegedly refusing to wear a traditional 'patka' or scarf during the 'At Home' reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The party further claimed that the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha declined to wear the headgear despite requests from President Droupadi Murmu. In response, the Congress party has rejected these allegations, pointing out that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also did not wear the traditional scarf. The Congress further alleged that the BJP is 'staging a drama to divert attention from real issues' and urged the party to stop involving the President in political disputes. The programme examines the friction over protocol and cultural symbolism between the two major political parties.
This news report focuses on a fresh political controversy following the 'At-Home' reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has criticised Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi for allegedly refusing to wear a traditional 'patka' from the Northeast, despite other dignitaries doing so. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the move as an 'act that was deeply insensitive and insulting to the people of entire Northeast'. The BJP claims that Rahul Gandhi did not oblige even after President Droupadi Murmu reminded him twice. In response, the Congress Party pointed out that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was also not wearing the same patka during the event. The discussion highlights that the theme of the reception was focused on Northeastern culture and food. Critics argue that as a constitutional office holder, Rahul Gandhi should have embraced the cultural symbol, while the opposition labels the BJP's reaction as a political diversion.
This report focuses on the historic visit of European Union leaders to India for the 77th Republic Day celebrations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa attended the parade at Kartavya Path as chief guests, arriving in a ceremonial buggy with President Droupadi Murmu. Ursula von der Leyen described the invitation as the 'honor of a lifetime' and was seen wearing a traditional brocade bandhkala kurta. The event marked the first time an EU contingent marched in the parade. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally briefed the leaders on the significance of various tableaux. The visit is strategically significant amid shifting global alliances and tensions between Europe and the US over Greenland. Discussions between PM Modi and the EU leadership are expected to cover trade, technology, and climate change, with the EU chief describing the potential strategic cooperation as a 'mother of all deals' for the two regions.
On this Special Report, the focus is on India's 77th Republic Day celebrations featuring European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa as chief guests. Ursula von der Leyen described the invitation to the parade at Kartavya Path as the 'honour of a lifetime.' The event marked a historic milestone as a European Union contingent marched in the parade for the first time, with flag bearers on gypsy vehicles. The EU leaders arrived in a ceremonial buggy alongside President Droupadi Murmu and were received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit is being viewed as a significant strategic move, potentially leading to major agreements. Following the parade, the leaders are scheduled for a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Modi to discuss critical outcomes regarding trade, technology, climate action, and strategic cooperation. This engagement underscores the shifting global alliances and the strengthening of ties between India and the European Union in a period of geopolitical uncertainty.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating tension between Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot and the Congress-led state government. Governor Gehlot has submitted a formal report to President Droupadi Murmu, detailing what he describes as the 'bad behavior of the Congress MLAs' during a Joint Assembly Session. The Governor alleged that his exit was blocked and slogans were raised against him after he reportedly refused to read certain portions of the state-prepared speech that criticised the Centre. 'The Governor has said that they raise slogans in front of me, my exit was blocked by Congress MLAs,' according to the report. While the Congress party accuses the Governor of violating constitutional protocols by modifying the speech, the BJP has demanded action against ministers for allegedly heckling the Governor. The situation remains tense as Congress plans a 'Raj Bhavan Chalo' protest march, further intensifying the constitutional standoff in the state.
On this Special Report, Preeti Choudhry and Sandeep Unnithan cover the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path. Preeti Choudhry highlights the significance of the event, stating it is 'especially significant given the fact that it is the first Republic Day parade commemorating India's, not just our cultural strength and resilience, but also our military might.' The bulletin focuses on the theme of 150 years of the national song, Vande Mataram, and the display of indigenous weaponry following 'Operation Sindoor'. The anchors discuss India's evolution toward 'Atmanirbharta' in defense, noting that 2025 was designated as the year of reforms by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The ceremony features President Droupadi Murmu and chief guests Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. The program reflects on India's civilizational history as the mother of democracy and its modern military prowess in the face of regional challenges.
On this special report, anchor Preeti Choudhry covers the 77th Republic Day celebrations as President Droupadi Murmu departs Rashtrapati Bhavan in a traditional horse-drawn buggy. Joining the President are the two chief guests for the occasion: Antonio Costa, former Prime Minister of Portugal, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. Preeti Choudhry notes that the event is 'loaded in symbolism, in political messaging, in geopolitics, very, very important'. The programme highlights the significance of the tri-services march pass and the historical roots of the President's Bodyguard, one of the world's oldest horse cavalry regiments. Co-anchor Sandeep Unnithan points out that Ursula von der Leyen, a keen equestrian, would particularly appreciate the ceremonial buggy ride. The broadcast emphasizes India's ability to blend its 5,000-year-old cultural heritage with contemporary geopolitical realignments, marking a significant milestone in the nation's journey.
On this special broadcast, Preeti Choudhry reports on the commencement of India's 77th Republic Day celebrations. The coverage begins at the National War Memorial, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived to pay a solemn tribute to the country's fallen heroes. Preeti Choudhry noted, 'The laying of the wreath by the Prime Minister, a solemn tribute to those who for our today give up their tomorrow.' The transcript details the significance of the eternal flame and the 25,942 names inscribed at the memorial, which was dedicated to the nation in 2019. Following the wreath-laying ceremony led by Squadron Leader Hemant Singh Kanya and the inter-services guard, the proceedings move toward Kartavya Path for the unfurling of the tricolour by President Murmu. The report also highlights the Prime Minister's traditional headgear and the clear weather in Delhi as the nation prepares for the historic parade.
On this Special Report, the focus is on India celebrating its 77th Republic Day with President Droupadi Murmu leading the festivities at Kartavya Path. Highlighting the nation's military prowess following Operation Sindoor, the President stated, 'The operation struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan, destroyed terror hubs and eliminated terrorists,' calling it a success of India's growing self-reliance. The parade features European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa as chief guests. The central theme marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, featuring 2,500 artists and 30 tableaux. Significant military displays include the S-400 air defence system, BrahMos missiles, and a seven-jet flypast featuring Rafale and Su-30 aircraft. For the first time, the Army's animal contingent includes Sanskrit ponies and kites. The programme highlights India's transition to a phased battle array format and the President's firsthand experiences with the INS Vikrant and INS Vaksir, reaffirming faith in India's indigenous security capabilities and strategic strength.
On India's 77th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the nation's growing military prowess and the success of 'Operation Sindoor'. During her address, she stated, 'Operation Sindoor was a historic success', noting that the mission effectively destroyed terror infrastructure and hubs. The celebrations at Kartavya Path featured European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa as chief guests. The parade showcased India's 'Viksit Bharat' vision with 30 tableaux and a massive flypast of Rafale and Sukhoi jets. A significant highlight was the display of the S-400 air defence system and the first-ever inclusion of an animal contingent featuring Zanskar ponies. President Murmu reflected on her visits to Siachen and her experiences aboard INS Vikrant and INS Vaksir, expressing complete faith in India's security capabilities and the 'Aatmanirbhar' shift in the defence sector.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the announcement of the Padma Awards 2026, celebrating icons and grassroots changemakers. Former UGC Chairperson M. Jagadesh Kumar, honoured with the Padma Shri, stated, 'You know that many reforms have to happen in higher education and in the coming years we will be rapidly implementing the NEP 2020 and already a lot of transformation has taken place and these reforms will be carried out at scale.' The awards recognize a diverse group, including late actor Dharmendra for the Padma Vibhushan and cricketer Rohit Sharma for the Padma Shri. The bulletin also highlights a historic milestone for Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to receive the Ashok Chakra following his Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the recipients, noting their contributions strengthen the nation. The 2026 list features significant representation from Southern states, particularly Kerala and Tamil Nadu, alongside gallantry awards conferred by President Droupadi Murmu.
