New Delhi: After taking oath at the Parliament House on Monday, Draupadi Murmu took over as India’s first tribal president.
Earlier in the day, Murmu reached Rashtrapati Bhavan, from where outgoing President Ram Nath Kovind took him to the Parliament House. She then returned to Rashtrapati Bhavan after the swearing-in ceremony.
Murmu was received at Rashtrapati Bhavan by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, chiefs of the three armed forces and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
After assuming office, Murmu inspected the Tri-Services Guard of Honor in the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. His predecessor Kovind later left for his residence on Janpath Road.
In his first address to the nation as President, Murmu said that his rise was not only his achievement, but also that of everyone in the country.
“Jauhar! Namaskar! I humbly greet all my fellow citizens from this holy Parliament that symbolizes the hopes, aspirations and rights of all citizens of India. Your affection, trust and support will be my greatest strength in carrying out my tasks and responsibilities “
“I express my heartfelt gratitude to all the MPs and members of all Legislative Assemblies for being elected to the highest constitutional office of India. Your vote is an expression of the faith of crores of citizens of the country.”
ThePrint photo editor Praveen Jain brings glimpses of the new President’s first day at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
With inputs from PTI