President Ram Nath Kovind issued veiled warning to China

"However, even while the world community needs to fight together against the greatest challenge before humanity, some in our neighbourhood tried to carry out their misadventure of expansion. Our brave soldiers laid down their lives defending our borders. Their bravery has shown that if anyone tries to create disturbance, an appropriate answer will be given," asserted President Kovind.

He added, "The entire nation pays tribute to the martyrs of Galwan Valley. Every Indian has a feeling of gratitude towards each of their family members."

There were 20 Indian casualties and an unknown number of Chinese troops were also killed in the violent clash.

Of the various issues President Ram Nath Kovind touched upon on the eve of India's 74th Independence Day, two were of special significance – The Galwan face off and Ram Mandir – two events that dominated headlines, recently.

On floods in the north-eastern States, the President said, "Floods have been disturbing lives of our people in the Northeast and the eastern States. Amidst such onslaught of disasters, it is gratifying to see all sections of society coming together to help those in distress."

Referring to the recent 'Bhumi Pujan' of the Ram Temple that took place in Ayodhya on August 5, the President expressed satisfaction that the decades-long dispute was resolved amicably through judicial process.

He said, "The issue of Ram Janmabhoomi was resolved through judicial process. All concerned parties and the people respectfully accepted the verdict of the Supreme Court and displayed before the world, Indian ethos of peace, non-violence, love and harmony."

The President praised the role of the Corona warriors while saying that an 'invisible virus has changed our lives'.

"The nation is indebted to the doctors, nurses and other health workers who have been continuously on the forefront of our fight against COVID-19. Unfortunately, many of them have lost their lives battling the pandemic. They are our national heroes," said President Kovind.

He also praised the government's role in providing free ration to crores of people during the pandemic, besides lauding the initiative to bring back scores of Indians stuck on foreign shores owing to the COVID-induced lockdown. He also praised the government's role in helping thousands of migrants reach their respective hometowns.

"By introducing the 'Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana', the government has enabled crores of people to earn their livelihood, and mitigate the impact of job-loss, dislocation and disruption caused by the pandemic," said the President. (IANS)

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