President Pranab Mukherjee told Parliament that the government would firmly deal with terrorism, even as it is committed to forge a mutually respectful relationship with Pakistan.

Addressing the customary joint sitting of Parliament ahead of the Budget session, Mukherjee commended the security forces for foiling the attack on Pathankot air base by terrorists belonging to Pakistan, conveying the government’s pledge to strongly respond to any challenge on security.

"Let me congratulate the security forces in successfully foiling the recent attack at the Pathankot air base by terrorists. Firm and effective steps will be taken to deal with any situation arising out of cross-border terrorism," he said.

Mukherjee said his government is committed to create an environment of cooperation in combating cross-border terrorism.

 Acknowledging terrorism as a global threat, he said strong counter-terrorism measures are necessary worldwide to eradicate it completely. On the north-east states and Maoist-affected areas, he said there has been significant improvement in the overall security situation in these areas.

"This has been made possible through sustained efforts and measures taken by the intelligence agencies and security forces in collaboration with the State Governments," he said. The President also referred to government’s initiatives in ensuring women’s safety, including nationwide emergency response systems, a central victim compensation fund, cyber crime prevention against women and children, organised crime investigation agency and integrated emergency response system for women’s safety in railways.


Our Parliament reflects the supreme will of the people. Democratic temper calls for debate and discussion, and not disruption and obstruction

My government will constantly strive for smooth and constructive conduct of Parliamentary business

Being a member of this great institution bestows great honour as well as important responsibilities

The government is committed to forging a mutually respectful relationship with Pakistan but firm and effective steps will be taken to deal with any situation arising out of cross-border terrorism

My government believes in a secure and prosperous future for our neighbourhood, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: The world is one family” is the principle to which the government is committed

Let noble thoughts come from all directions, should be the spirit behind the debate in this temple of democracy

I urge all MPs to discharge their solemn responsibilities in spirit of cooperation and mutual accommodation

To provide the best market price to farmers, the unified National Agriculture Market is working towards setting up a common e-market platform to connect 585 regulated wholesale markets, making India “One Food Zone, One Country, One Market”