Modi govt working for New India: Prez

​New Delhi: Presenting key achievements of Modi government ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday asserted it has worked to build a "New India" after assuming power in 2014 and infused new hope when the nation was passing through "uncertain times". 

Kickstarting the Budget Session of Parliament with an address to a joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, Kovind also said the government is attempting to find "permanent solutions" for problems faced by farmers, amid speculation over an announcement of a farm relief package in the Interim Budget to be unveiled Friday. 

During his over 60-minute address in the Central Hall of Parliament, Kovind spoke on issues ranging from Rafale jet deal and 10 per cent reservation for the general category poor to the triple talaq legislation, the Citizenship Amendment Bill and the state of economy. 

Kovind described the 10 per cent quota as historic. "Prior to the 2014 General Election, the country was passing through a phase of uncertainty. After the elections, my government assumed charge and vowed to build a New India. A New India with no place for imperfect, corrupt and inertia ridden systems," he said. 

The President's address, which reflects the government's views, assumes significance as it comes just ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, expected to be held in April-May. In the last four-and-a- half years, the government has infused new hope and confidence among the people of the country, enhanced the country's image and has effectively brought in social and economic change, he said. 

From day one, the government's mission, based on transparency, was to improve the lives of citizens, to eradicate their difficulties owing to poor governance, and to make sure that the benefit of public services reach the lowest strata of the society, he said. 

Referring to the controversial Rafale jet deal with France over which the Congress has targeted the government, Kovind said the Indian Air Force will welcome the ultra-modern fighter aircraft in the coming months to strengthen its strike capability after a gap of many decades. The mention of Rafale as well as the 2016 'surgical strikes' carried out on terror launch pads across the border was greeted by thumping of desks by the treasury benches. "Through the surgical strike on cross border terror posts, India has shown its new policy and strategy," the President said. 

Addressing problems faced by farmers, who, he called are the foundation of the economy, the President recounted the government's commitment to doubling farmers' income by 2022 and listed measures taken during its tenure.