NEW DELHI: Noting that the recent general elections were a "turning point" in the "evolution of democratic polity" in the country, President Pranab Mukherjee said that by voting in the Narendra Modi government the people have declared they want to see a vibrant, dynamic and prosperous India.
Addressing a joint session of both houses of parliament, Mukherjee said: "The people of India have given a clear mandate. They want to see a vibrant, dynamic and prosperous India. They want to see a resurgent India regaining the admiration and respect of the international community.
"Brimming with hope and expectation, they want quick results. With three Ds of Democracy, Demography and Demand on our side, India is poised to actualize these aspirations. We must rise to the occasion to fulfill these great expectations.
"In 60 months from now, we should be able to say with confidence and pride that we have done it," the president said. Modi during his election campaign had said that if he and his government are given 60 months to perform then they will take India down the road to progress.
The president began his 55-minute speech by congratulating the people for voting in record numbers.
He hoped that "the sessions ahead with heavy legislative agenda will be productive and useful".
Congratulating the election commission and the official machinery, the president said it is a "matter of great satisfaction that the general elections were smooth and largely peaceful".
