President Kovind Emphasized Role of Entrepreneurs and Startups in Nation Building

Emphasizing on the importance self sustainable job creators, in his first speech as President of India, Mr. Ram Nath Kovind praised the role of entrepreneurs and startups in nation building.

"Each citizen of India is a nation builder. Each one of us is a custodian of India’s well-being and of the legacy that we will pass on to coming generations," said Mr. Kovind, praising the role of young entrepreneurs and startups in nation building.

Elected to the highest constitutional office last week, Kovind was administered the oath of office by Chief Justice of India J.S. Khehar at a ceremony in the Central Hall of Parliament before a gathering of MPs, Chief Ministers and diplomats, on Tuesday.

"That young person who founds a start-up and becomes a job creator is a nation builder," he said in his speech.

"The start-up could be on a small farm, converting mangoes to pickles. Or in an artisans' village, weaving carpets. Or at a laboratory lit up by giant screens," he added.

In his speech, the President also mentioned about the role of the armed forces, the police and paramilitary forces, farmers,  scientists, nurses or doctors, teachers and women.

"Nations are not built by governments alone. The government can at best be a facilitator, and a trigger for society’s innate entrepreneurial and creative instincts. Nation building requires national pride," he added.

"I bow to the 125 crore citizens of this great nation and promise to stay true to the trust they have bestowed on me," Kovind said on his assumption of office as President of India.