Highlights from president's address to the nation on eve of 70th Independence Day

President Pranab Mukherjee addressed the nation on the eve of our 70th Independence Day. Here are the highlights from his address to the nation:

1. Fellow citizens, I respectfully bow to our heroes of the independence struggle, known and unknown.

2. Our democracy built on pillars of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity has grown from strength to strength.

3. Polarising debates only deepen the fault lines in public discourse.

4. The very essence of plurality lies in cherishing our heterogeneity and valuing our diversity.

5. We should promote and reinforce a scientific temper by questioning our beliefs.

6. Passage of GST (Goods and Services Tax) Constitutional Amendment Bill is reason enough to celebrate our democratic maturity.

7. The fact that despite two consecutive drought years, inflation has remained below six per cent is testimony to our nation's resilience.

8. We are in the process of forging new relationship with all countries, especially in the extended neighbourhood.

9. The world has witnessed a spate of terror activities having their roots in the radicalisation of people on the basis of religion.

10. These forces pose a danger to the entire comity of nations; the world will have to fight them unconditionally and in one voice.

11. On this occasion, (I extend my) special greetings to all armed forces, paramilitary forces who are guarding the nation.

12. To quote the Upanishads: May god protect us; may god nourish us; may we work together with vigour and energy; may our studies be brilliant; may there be no hostility amongst us; may there be peace, peace, peace. Jai Hind.