Indians have shown matchless resolve during pandemic: Prez

New Delhi: Asking people to celebrate "Indian-ness" this Republic Day, President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said the country has shown an unmatched resolve in the face of the extraordinary challenge to humankind posed by the coronavirus pandemic and that a strong and sensitive India is now emerging.

In his address to the nation on the eve of 73rd Republic Day, President Kovind noted that democracy, justice, liberty, equality and fraternity form the bedrock of India and stressed that the observance of Fundamental Duties mentioned in the Constitution creates the proper environment for the enjoyment of Fundamental Rights. "The diversity and vibrancy of our democracy is appreciated world-wide. It is this spirit of unity and of being one nation which is celebrated every year as Republic Day," he said.

This year's celebrations may be muted due to the pandemic, but the spirit is as strong as ever, Kovind said. The President said the pandemic management was bound to be more difficult in India due to its high population and other factors.