New Delhi: The people of India have given a mandate to continue with the country's development journey that started in 2014, President Ram Nath Kovind said Thursday.
In his address to the joint sitting of both houses of Parliament in the historic Central Hall, he said government is moving ahead to create a strong, secure and inclusive India.
In his customary address after formation of the 17th Lok Sabha, the President also said that government has started a pension scheme to help farmers and small traders live a life of dignity.
Congratulating the Election Commission and crores of officials and security personnel involved in holding the general elections, he pointed out that over 61 crore people voted in the Lok Sabha polls, creating a record.
He said women came out in large numbers to exercise their franchise.
He said a record 78 women have been elected as members of the Lok Sabha -- the highest ever and almost half of the elected members are first timers.
"In this election, the people of the country gave a clear mandate. After the assessment of the government's first tenure, the people have given it a bigger mandate this time," he said.
He said, by doing so, the people have given a mandate to accelerate the development process initiated in 2014.
The President also urged the government to ensure stringent punishment for crimes against women and said the new Modi government's main objective was to build a secure nation.
Addressing the joint session of Parliament, Kovind said the penal provisions for crimes committed against women should be strictly enforced.
He added that to ensure equal rights for every woman, social evils like 'triple talaq' must end.
"Empowerment of women is one of the highest priorities of my government. The empowerment of women and their effective participation in society and economy is the test of a developed society," Kovind said.
The President said the new government would serve everyone and was committed to fight corruption.
