Highlights: President Ram Nath Kovind Says India Still Emerging From Deadly Covid Wave

President Ram Nath Kovind, while addressing the nation on the eve of the 75th Independence Day today, said Indian players have brought laurels to the nation with their stellar performance in the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics.

During the nation's address, the President also spoke about the role of women in sports, especially the recent Olympics, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the Indian economy.

Here are the Highlights from the President Ram Nath Kovind's address to the nation

• I wish Indians everywhere a happy independence day. Independence day is a celebration of the country's freedom. The nation will not forget the freedom fighters' sacrifices. This year's Independence Day has special significance because from this year, we all are celebrating the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence on the occasion of 75th anniversary of our independence.
• The specialty of our freedom movement is that it was based on Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of truth and non-violence.
• When we look back at these 75 years, we see that we have made a lot of progress. In the recently held Olympics, the Indian participants made us proud, they made history. Our daughters achieved international feat in these games.
• From the field of science to sports, our daughters are creating history everywhere. India's daughters did well in Tokyo Olympics... appreciate their resilience.
• Like last year, this year's Independence Day celebrations will be toned down. I am pained that several people lost their lives during the second coronavirus wave. I want to tell their families that I am with them.
• We are winning over the second coronavirus wave because of our frontline workers.
• We undertook war efforts to strengthen our health infrastructure during the pandemic. I thank the global leaders for providing us with medical facilities during our time of need.
• Over 50 crore have been vaccinated in the country under the world's biggest inoculation drive. I urge all Indians to get vaccinated as per protocol as soon as possible and also to motivate others.
• The impact of this pandemic is as devastating for the economy as it is for the health of the people. The government has been concerned about the problems of the poor and lower middle class people as well as the small and medium industries.
• I am happy that the growth in rural areas, especially in the agriculture sector, has continued despite the odds. During my visit to my native village Paronkh, I was glad to see that better infrastructure has been developed to make life easier in rural areas.
• With a strong belief in the growth potential inherent in our economy, the government has further simplified investments in defence, health, civil aviation, power and other sectors.
• Our democracy is based on the parliamentary system, so Parliament is the temple of our democracy. It is a matter of great pride that this temple of our democracy is going to be established in a new building in the near future.
• The government has launched several schemes to make this special year memorable. Gaganyaan Mission holds special importance in those missions. When Indian Air Force pilots fly into space, India will become the fourth country in the world to carry out a manned space mission.
• Gandhiji said that it takes effort to learn the art of living in harmony with nature, but once you make a connection with rivers and mountains, animals and birds, nature reveals its secrets to you. Climate change is a big worry right now, and we are drafting suitable policies.
• My heartfelt appreciation to all the Covid warriors. Many Covid warriors have also lost their lives. I salute the memory of all of them.
• I especially appreciate the brave jawans of the Indian Armed Forces, who have defended our freedom, and have made sacrifices when required.