After convincingly winning the presidential election against Mr. Yaswant Sinha. Draupadi Murmu is set to take the top-constitutional post of the largest democracy in the world. She is the second woman to hold this distinguished position and the first with tribal roots.
On 25th July 2022, Draupadi Murmu will take the oath to become the 15th President of India. Being the first Adivasi woman to hold the post, the occasion will commemorate the much-awaited imprints of the Adivasi community on our constitution.
Formative Years
Draupadi Murmu was born on 20th June 1958, in Mayurbhanj district in Odisha in a tribal community. The journey from such humble beginnings to New Delhi has been navigated through sheer determination and hard work. She completed her schooling at Unit-2 High school and went on to satisfy her academic appetite at the Rama Devi’s Women University in Bhubaneshwar.
Professional Career
She commenced her illustrious career as a Junior Assitant in the State Irrigation and Power Department in 1979. After four fulfilling years, she shifted to Sri Aurobindo Integral Education Center and zealously worked there till 1997.
Foray Into Politics
Draupadi Murmu’s inclination toward public service redirected her towards politics. She held the position of councillor for Rairangpur Nagar Panchayat for the BJP and became the Chairperson of the same. And she also held the position of National Vice President of the party’s Scheduled Tribe Morcha. She held the following offices in Odisha during the BJP-Biju Janta Dal coalition government.
- Minister of State with Independent Charge of Commerce and Transportation
- Minister of Fisheries and Animal Resources Department
- MLA from the Rairangpur Assembly Constituency
Governor of Jharkhand
Draupadi Murmu is also the first Adivasi woman to hold the position of Governor of an Indian State. She worked relentlessly for the betterment of the state. She took a heroic stance during her tenure when she refused to give her assent to a bill that sought amendments to The Chotanagpur Tenancy Act 1908 and The Santhal Paranga Act, 1949. These bills safeguard the land ownership rights of the Tribals. And shields them from exploitation.
Draupadi Murmu: The Presidential Candidate
Draupadi Murmu was nominated for the position of President by the NDA. She travelled across the country seeking support for her candidature. Visiting lawmakers and leaders of the opposition parties. Shiv Sena, BSP, and JDS were some of the regional parties that endorsed her appointment.
Draupadi Murmu’s story mirrors the journey of our nation, which too relentlessly progressed despite numerous adversities. This appointment will pave a path for people residing in the remote corners of the county to participate in democratic exercises. As the President of India, Draupadi Murmu authenticates the promising arrival of marginal communities into the mainstream. This inclusion will shed light on the unknown facets of the country and strengthen the democratic fabric of India.
