President Droupadi Murmu: A Profile
Droupadi Murmu is the 15th and current President of India. Her election in 2022 marked a significant moment in Indian history, as she is the first person belonging to a Scheduled Tribe to hold the highest office in the country. Her journey to the presidency is an inspiring tale of resilience, dedication to public service, and breaking down societal barriers.
Born on June 20, 1958, in Baidaposi, a village in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, Murmu hails from the Santhal community. Her early life was marked by challenges typical of a rural, marginalized community. However, she pursued her education diligently, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rama Devi Women’s College in Bhubaneswar.
Murmu began her career as a teacher before venturing into politics. She served as a Junior Assistant in the Irrigation Department of the Government of Odisha, gaining firsthand experience of administrative processes and the needs of the people. This experience laid the foundation for her future political endeavors.
Her political career commenced in 1997 when she was elected as a councilor in the Rairangpur Nagar Panchayat. She then served as the Vice-Chairperson of the same panchayat. Her dedication to local governance and grassroots development earned her recognition and paved the way for her election to the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 2000. She was elected twice, representing the Rairangpur constituency. During her tenure as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), she served as a Minister of State with Independent Charge for Commerce and Transport and later for Fisheries and Animal Resources Development in the Biju Janata Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party coalition government in Odisha.
In 2015, Murmu was appointed as the Governor of Jharkhand, becoming the first woman to hold the post. She served as Governor for six years, a period during which she earned a reputation for her impartiality, her commitment to the welfare of tribal communities, and her advocacy for education and healthcare. Her tenure was characterized by her accessible approach and her genuine concern for the issues affecting the state’s citizens.
Murmu’s nomination as the presidential candidate by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was widely welcomed. Her election as President not only symbolized the empowerment of marginalized communities but also highlighted the importance of inclusive governance. As President, she serves as the Head of State and a symbol of national unity. She presides over important state functions, safeguards the Constitution, and plays a significant role in national policy-making.
President Droupadi Murmu’s life story is an inspiration to millions. She exemplifies the values of hard work, integrity, and service to the nation. Her election underscores the progress India has made in empowering its citizens from all backgrounds and reinforces the belief that every individual, regardless of their origin, can aspire to achieve the highest office in the land.