President Murmu Receives Grand Welcome at Parliament, Inaugurates Budget Session with Address

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at the Parliament complex on Friday. She arrived in a traditional horse-drawn carriage, where she was greeted by Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. A ceremonial officer carrying the “Sengol” (a traditional staff adopted as a cultural symbol) also participated in the reception.

The President addressed a joint session of both Houses of Parliament, officially marking the commencement of the Budget Session. Amid the foggy morning in the national capital, President Murmu arrived in the six-horse carriage accompanied by her mounted ceremonial guard.

At the Parliament lawns, the President received a guard of honor. Vice President Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Birla, and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju then escorted her to the Lok Sabha chamber. Prior to her arrival, a senior parliamentary marshal, dressed in traditional attire, ceremoniously removed the “Sengol” from its place and led a procession, accompanied by drum beats, alongside Speaker Birla.

At the historic Gaj Dwar of Parliament, the President was welcomed by the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Lok Sabha Speaker. Led by the officer carrying the “Sengol,” the dignitaries proceeded to the Lok Sabha chamber.

In her address, President Murmu emphasized the importance of cooperation among all Members of Parliament in ensuring the smooth functioning of the House. She expressed her happiness at addressing the session, noting that the previous year will be remembered for India’s rapid progress and celebrations of its rich heritage.