The President has asserted that India's offer of friendship should not be taken for granted. Addressing the nation on the eve of 64th Republic Day on Friday, Pranab Mukherjee referred to the serious atrocities committed on Indian troops on the Line of Control and said sponsorship of terrorism through non state actors is a matter of great concern. In an apparent reference to Pakistan, he said India believes in peace on the border and is always ready to offer a hand in hope of friendship. But, he made it clear that this hand should not be taken for granted.

On economic reforms, the President pitched for inclusive growth and said the high growth figures have no meaning unless they benefit all sections of society. The result of the policies must be seen in villages, farmas and factories, schools and hospitals. He said there is need to act immediately. Otherwise, the current pockets of conflicts often described as Naxalite violence could acquire far more dangerous dimensions, he cautioned. Calling upon legislatures to reflect the emerging India, he said elected representatives must win back the confidence of the people.

Describing education as a mantra, he said it can transform economic fortunes and eliminate inequality from the society. Mukherjee said that education has not reached to the extent desired, so far. India can double its growth rate by turning today's disadvantaged in to multiple engines of economic development.

The President promised that India will change more in the next ten years than in the previous sixty.