Who Is the Present President of India?India, the world’s largest democracy, holds the office of the President as its constitutional head and highest ceremonial authority. Although the role is mostly symbolic, the President plays a crucial part in upholding the Constitution and the functioning of parliamentary democracy. As of now, the current President of India is Droupadi Murmu, who took office in July 2022. Her election was historic and marked several firsts for the nation.
Who Is Droupadi Murmu?
Droupadi Murmu is the 15th President of India and the first tribal woman to ever hold this position. Her election represents a significant step toward inclusive representation in Indian politics. She hails from the Santhal tribe, one of India’s largest tribal communities, and comes from the eastern state of Odisha.
Before becoming the President, she served in various political and administrative roles at the state level, which helped her build a strong foundation in public service. Her journey from a small tribal village to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President, is an inspiring story of perseverance and dedication.
Early Life and Education
Droupadi Murmu was born on June 20, 1958, in Uparbeda village, located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. Her upbringing was modest, and she faced many personal and financial challenges early in life. Despite this, she excelled academically and went on to earn a degree in arts from Rama Devi Women’s College in Bhubaneswar.
She later worked as a teacher and held a clerical job in the state irrigation department before venturing into politics. Her humble beginnings and commitment to education shaped her worldview and approach to leadership.
Political Career Before Presidency
Murmu’s political journey began in the 1990s when she joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She was elected as a member of the Odisha Legislative Assembly and served two terms between 2000 and 2009. During her tenure, she held various ministerial positions, including Minister of State for Commerce and Transport and later for Fisheries and Animal Resources.
She became known for her work in rural development and for advocating tribal rights. In 2015, she was appointed as the Governor of Jharkhand, making her the first woman to hold that office. Her service as governor lasted for six years and was widely praised for her integrity and balanced approach to governance.
Election as President
Droupadi Murmu was nominated as the presidential candidate by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the 2022 election. She faced Yashwant Sinha, the candidate supported by the opposition parties. With strong backing from the ruling alliance and some opposition parties as well, Murmu won the election with a clear majority.
She officially assumed office on July 25, 2022, becoming India’s second female president after Pratibha Patil and the first tribal person to serve in the role. Her victory was not only political but also deeply symbolic, representing the aspirations of marginalized communities across the country.
Role and Powers of the President of India
The President of India serves as the ceremonial head of the nation and performs functions according to the Indian Constitution. Though real executive powers rest with the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers, the President plays a crucial role in upholding constitutional values.
Some of the key responsibilities include
-
Appointing the Prime Minister, Governors, and judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
-
Giving assent to laws passed by Parliament.
-
Summoning and dissolving the Lok Sabha.
-
Acting as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
The President also has the power to grant pardons and commute sentences under topic 72 of the Constitution.
Impact of Her Presidency
Droupadi Murmu’s election brought visibility to tribal communities and underrepresented sections of Indian society. Her presence in the highest office has encouraged conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion. It also marked a new chapter in Indian democracy, demonstrating that leadership is possible regardless of one’s social or economic background.
She has used her platform to emphasize issues such as women’s empowerment, education, environmental conservation, and indigenous rights. While the role of the President is largely ceremonial, her speeches and symbolic gestures have added moral weight to important national discussions.
Challenges Ahead
As President, Droupadi Murmu faces the ongoing responsibility of maintaining constitutional order and acting as a moral compass in times of political uncertainty. Although the office does not engage in policymaking, the President has an essential duty to ensure that democratic procedures are respected.
In a politically dynamic country like India, the President must also navigate situations where constitutional interpretations are required, such as in times of coalition politics, presidential assent on controversial bills, or resolving disputes between the central and state governments.
Public Perception and Legacy
Public response to Murmu’s presidency has largely been positive. Her life story has inspired many young Indians, especially girls and those from tribal backgrounds, to pursue public service and education. Her calm demeanor, commitment to duty, and approachable personality have also made her popular among political leaders and citizens alike.
Her legacy is already being written through her presence and the change it signifies. Whether or not she influences policy decisions directly, her symbolic leadership may have long-lasting effects on the country’s attitude toward social inclusion and representation.
Droupadi Murmu is more than just the current President of India she is a symbol of the evolving nature of Indian democracy. From her humble roots in Odisha to the grandeur of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, her journey illustrates the possibility of change and progress in society. Her presidency stands as a reminder that leadership is not confined to a particular background, and that commitment to service can elevate anyone to the highest office in the land. As India continues to grow and transform, the presence of a tribal woman in its top constitutional role is a powerful message to the world.