80th Independence Day: President announces sweeping exam reforms to end paper leaks, safeguard youth

President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation on August 14, 2026, on the eve of the 80th Independence Day. The National Song, Vande Mataram, and the National Anthem were played before and after the address.

In her speech, the President described students as the "architects of India's future." She said the government is implementing comprehensive reforms in public examinations with the aim of completely curbing unfair means. "Public examinations become gateways to opportunities for our students," she noted, adding that the reforms are intended to make the examination system more transparent, secure, and trustworthy for the youth.

Stressing the need for collective effort, President Murmu said that just as government and society unite to ensure national security, everyone must contribute through joint and concerted efforts to protect the present and future of students. Her remarks come in the backdrop of recent nationwide protests led by students and young people, demanding systemic overhauls and swift legal action following reports of paper leaks in competitive examinations.

Highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit among young citizens, the President said that many youth are now embracing a culture of job creation rather than job seeking. She noted that the participation of young entrepreneurs has led to the development of a strong start-up ecosystem in the country. "Major global enterprises are impressed by the talent and dedication of Indian youth and entrust them with leadership roles," she added.

The President said such achievers have enhanced the reputation of India's youth power globally, and expressed her faith in the nation's bright future.

Turning to holistic development, she emphasised that the physical and mental well-being of the youth is the cornerstone of the nation's future. She called upon families and society to share the collective responsibility of motivating the younger generation.

President Murmu also highlighted sports as a key vehicle for youth development and nation-building under the flagship Khelo India programme. "A sports ecosystem is being developed across the country, from the grassroots to the national level. The government is making unprecedented investments to promote sports, yielding remarkable leaps in the achievements of our sportspersons in international tournaments," she said.

In her address, the President also lauded the "unmatched valour" of the Indian Armed Forces. She recalled the anniversary of Operation Sindoor, which began on May 7, 2025, and the observance of Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26 this year. She described Operation Sindoor as a demonstration of the Indian Armed Forces' capability to execute precision counter-terror operations.

"It sent a clear and firm message to terrorists and those who support them that no matter where they hide, they will have to face the consequences of their actions," she said. The President also referred to strategic measures accompanying the counter-terror posture, including the decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, which India has accused of harbouring terror networks.

She concluded by reaffirming India's tradition of overcoming forces hostile to humanity and called for unity in safeguarding the future of the nation's youth.