Draupadi Murmu, the 15th President of India, is a celebrated tribal leader from Rairangpur in Odisha. On her 65th birth anniversary, we reflect on her remarkable journey from a school teacher to becoming the first tribal and second woman to hold the highest office in the country. Let’s delve into Draupadi Murmu’s biography, her political career, personal life, and the significant milestones she has achieved.
Draupadi Murmu’s Biography:
Draupadi Murmu was born on June 20, 1958, in Uparbeda village in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. She hails from a Santali tribal family and was raised by her father, Biranchi Narayan Tudu. Her family has a history of involvement in local governance under the Panchayati Raj Systems.
Personal Life and Education:
Draupadi Murmu was married to Shyam Charan Murmu, a banker, who unfortunately passed away in 2014. The couple had two sons, both of whom also passed away, and a daughter named Itishri Murmu. Draupadi Murmu pursued her education at Ramadevi Women’s University.
Teaching Career:
Before venturing into state politics, Draupadi Murmu began her career as a school teacher. She worked as an assistant professor at the Shri Aurobindo Integral Education and Research Institute in Rairangpur. Additionally, she served as a Junior Assistant at the Irrigation Department of the Government of Odisha.
Political Career:
Draupadi Murmu joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1997, marking the beginning of her political journey. She was elected as the councillor of Rairangpur Nagar Panchayat and later became its Chairperson in 2000. Draupadi Murmu also held the position of National Vice-President of BJP Scheduled Tribes Morcha.
Throughout her career, she served in various positions within the Odisha government. Notably, she held the position of Minister of State with Independent Charge for Commerce and Transportation from March 2000 to August 2000. She also served as the Minister of Fisheries and Animal Resources Development from August 2002 to May 2004. In addition, Draupadi Murmu represented the Rairangpur Assembly Constituency as an MLA in 2004.
Governor of Jharkhand:
Draupadi Murmu made history by becoming the first female tribal leader from Odisha to be appointed as the Governor of Jharkhand. She assumed office on May 18, 2015, and held the position with great dedication.
During her tenure as the Governor, Draupadi Murmu displayed unwavering commitment to upholding constitutional values and promoting the welfare of the people. She played a significant role in ensuring the rights and well-being of tribal communities in Jharkhand.
Presidential Candidacy and Swearing-in:
In 2022, Draupadi Murmu was nominated by the BJP as the National Democratic Alliance’s candidate for the President of India. She embarked on a nationwide campaign, garnering support from BJP lawmakers and various opposition parties. Her candidacy received endorsements from prominent political parties across the country.
On July 25, 2022, Draupadi Murmu took the oath as the 15th President of India in a ceremonial event held at the Central Hall of Parliament. The occasion was graced by dignitaries, including the outgoing President, Ram Nath Kovind, and Chief Justice of India, N.V. Ramana.
In her inaugural address, President Draupadi Murmu expressed her gratitude to the Members of Parliament and Members of Legislative Assemblies for electing her as the first tribal President of India. She emphasized the need for collective efforts to fulfill the expectations of the nation’s freedom fighters and work towards the progress and prosperity of the country.
Awards and Honors:
In recognition of her contributions, Draupadi Murmu received the Nilkantha Award for the best MLA from the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 2007. Her dedication and service have garnered immense respect and admiration.
Draupadi Murmu’s Impact as President:
Since assuming office, Draupadi Murmu has made significant contributions to the nation as the President of India. Her leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, empathy, and a commitment to uplifting marginalized communities. She has prioritized issues such as tribal rights, women’s empowerment, and the welfare of underprivileged sections of society.
Under her guidance, initiatives have been launched to address the challenges faced by tribal communities and promote their socio-economic development. Draupadi Murmu has been a strong advocate for the preservation of tribal culture, traditions, and languages, recognizing their invaluable contribution to India’s rich cultural heritage.
As an advocate for women’s empowerment, President Murmu has consistently championed gender equality and encouraged the participation of women in all spheres of society. She has called for greater representation of women in leadership positions and has been an inspiration for young girls across the country.
Draupadi Murmu’s tenure has been marked by her unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of the Constitution and ensuring the smooth functioning of democratic institutions. She has emphasized the need for constructive dialogue, unity, and collaboration among different sections of society to address the nation’s challenges effectively.
Throughout her presidency, Draupadi Murmu has been a vocal advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable development. Recognizing the importance of preserving India’s natural resources, she has actively promoted initiatives to combat climate change, encourage renewable energy, and promote eco-friendly practices.
In addition to her national duties, President Murmu has also played a significant role in promoting India’s relations with other countries. Her diplomatic engagements have focused on strengthening ties, fostering cooperation, and showcasing India’s cultural diversity and economic potential on the global stage.
Draupadi Murmu’s leadership as the President of India has been widely acknowledged and appreciated, both nationally and internationally. Her tenure has served as an inspiration for aspiring leaders, particularly women and members of marginalized communities, demonstrating that hard work, determination, and resilience can overcome barriers and pave the way for success.
Conclusion:
Draupadi Murmu’s journey from a tribal leader in Odisha to becoming the 15th President of India is a testament to her remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to public service. Her ascent to the presidency has broken barriers and shattered stereotypes, inspiring countless individuals to dream big and strive for excellence.
As a leader, Draupadi Murmu has left an indelible impact on the nation through her inclusive policies, advocacy for marginalized communities, and commitment to upholding democratic values. Her presidency will be remembered as a significant chapter in India’s history, symbolizing the power of determination, perseverance, and inclusivity.