Deepfakes Significant Threat To Democracy: Murmu

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said India has sent a firm message that any act of terror against the country will be met with resolute and decisive action.

Addressing a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament at the start of the Budget Session, Murmu said the world witnessed the valour of Indian armed forces during Operation Sindoor, when terror camps were destroyed using indigenous resources. She said India has demonstrated that power can be exercised with responsibility and wisdom.

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The President said the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty was part of India's broader fight against terrorism and added that security forces have taken decisive action against Maoist violence. Referring to Mission Sudarshan Chakra, she said efforts are underway to further strengthen national security, noting that trust in Indian defence platforms has increased after Operation Sindoor.

Commitment to Social Justice
Murmu said her government remains committed to true social justice, with social security benefits now reaching nearly 95 crore citizens across the country.

She said 25 crore Indians have moved out of poverty over the past decade and that in the government's third term, focused efforts are being made to further empower the poor. The President also said the government has taken firm steps to tackle corruption and scams, ensuring the proper and transparent use of public funds.

Economy, Growth and Reforms
Highlighting economic progress, Murmu said India's economic foundation has grown significantly stronger over the past 11 years and that despite global challenges, the country continues to be the fastest-growing major economy.

She welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on a free trade agreement with the European Union, saying it would boost manufacturing and service sectors while creating new employment opportunities for the youth. She said government policies have helped keep inflation under control, leading to higher incomes, improved savings, and greater purchasing power for citizens.

Referring to reforms, the President said the government is moving on the path of the Reforms Express. She cited the next-generation GST reform, which ensured savings of Rs 1 lakh crore for citizens, and described the exemption of income up to Rs 12 lakh under the revamped Income Tax law as a historic decision benefiting poor and middle-class families.

Murmu also said labour laws have been consolidated into four codes to safeguard workers' interests, ensure fair wages, and extend welfare benefits, particularly benefiting women and youth.

Health and Social Protection
The President said more than 11 crore free treatments have been provided under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, including 2.5 crore in the last year alone.

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She said around one crore senior citizens have received Vay Vandana cards, with nearly eight lakh benefiting from free inpatient treatment. Murmu highlighted the role of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in providing healthcare closer to homes and said screening under the Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission has covered over 6.5 crore citizens.

She also noted that India has been declared trachoma-free by the World Health Organisation and said diseases such as Japanese Encephalitis have been effectively controlled in several regions.

Infrastructure and Connectivity
Murmu said India has achieved record progress in infrastructure development, including national highways, rural roads, and railways.

She said rail electrification is close to completion and praised the expansion of the Vande Bharat train network, including the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper service. The President highlighted direct rail connectivity to Aizawl and cited landmark projects such as the Chenab Bridge and Pamban Bridge as symbols of India's engineering strength.

Science, Space and Technology
Referring to space achievements, Murmu said Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's visit to the International Space Station marked the beginning of a historic journey. She said India is moving towards building its own space station through the Gaganyaan mission.

The President said semiconductor manufacturing has gained momentum, with several units sanctioned, and that India is taking concrete steps towards nano-chip production. She added that dependence on other countries for critical minerals is being reduced through mission-mode efforts.

AI, Innovation and Education
Murmu warned that deepfake content, misinformation, and fake news pose serious threats to democracy, social harmony, and public trust. She urged lawmakers to deliberate seriously on the misuse of artificial intelligence.

She said early exposure to science, technology, and innovation through initiatives such as the Atal Innovation Mission and tinkering labs is preparing students for future challenges and promoting a culture of research and development.

Sports and National Pride
The President said India has secured the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games due to its confidence and preparedness. She praised reforms in sports governance and congratulated India's women cricketers and blind women's cricket team for their World Cup victories.

Culture, Heritage and Identity
Murmu said remembering the contributions of ancestors inspires future generations and strengthens national unity. She referred to commemorations of Guru Tegh Bahadur's martyrdom, Birsa Munda's birth anniversary, and events linked to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Bhupen Hazarika.

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