New Delhi, Jan 25 (FN Agency) President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday lauded the contribution of farmers, soldiers and scientists in the fight against COVID-19 despite numerous challenges and said farmers had sustained agricultural production in the face of such difficulties.
Addressing the nation on the eve of the 72nd Republic Day, he said, ‘Every Indian salutes our farmers who have made our vast and populous country self-reliant in food-grains and dairy products. Despite adversities of nature, numerous other challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic, our farmers sustained the agricultural production. A grateful nation is fully committed to the welfare of our farmers.’ The President also lauded the brave soldiers of the armed forces for ensuring security of the country’s national boundaries amid severest conditions. ‘Just as our hardworking farmers ensure food security for the country, the brave soldiers of the armed forces ensure security of our national boundaries amid severest conditions,’ he said. ‘From the freezing cold at Siachen and Galwan valley in Ladakh with temperatures as low as minus 50 to 60 degree Celsius to the scorching heat in Jaisalmer with temperatures as high as 50 degree Celsius — on land, in the skies and at the vast coastal areas – our warriors are vigilant every moment. Every citizen feels proud about the bravery, patriotism and the spirit of sacrifice among our soldiers,’ he said. The President also lauded the efforts of scientists for developing the COVID-19 vaccine in a record time.
‘Our scientists have been working day and night for decoding the Coronavirus and they have succeeded in developing the vaccine in record time…With this accomplishment, our scientists have added a glorious chapter of contribution to the well-being of humanity,’ the President said. He said scientists had strengthened national endeavours through their contribution to food security, national security, protection against disease and disasters and to different areas of development. ‘From space to farms, from educational institutions to hospitals, the community of scientists has enriched our life and work…Our scientists, along with doctors, administrators and people from other walks of life, have made a major contribution in containing the virus and keeping the fatality rate lower in our country, compared to that in developed countries. Thus, all our farmers, soldiers and scientists deserve special appreciation and a grateful nation greets them on this auspicious occasion of the Republic Day,’ he added.