Mutual respect despite disagreements is beauty of democracy: President Kovind

New Delhi [India] July 25 (ANI): In his first address after being sworn in as the 14th President of India, Ram Nath Kovind highlighted mutual respect as the essence of democracy. He was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Chief Justice of India J. S. Khehar. "I thank you for electing me to the responsibility of the President of India, and I enter this office with all humility. I have been a Member of Parliament and here, in this very Central Hall, have had discussions with many of you. Often we agreed, sometimes we disagreed. But we learnt to respect each other. And that is the beauty of democracy," President Kovind said at the ceremony. He added that India believes in philosophy of 'World is one family', adding there is a lot to be achieved. "We have to take India to great heights. I feel privileged to walk on the same path as Dr. Radhakrishnan, Dr. Abdul Kalam and Pranab da," the President said. He asserted that a nation grows when the development for all is ensured. "I come from a very simple background and the journey has been long. I grew up in a mud house, in a small village. I am very proud of our diversity, inclusive growth is way forward," President Kovind said. He added that India's voice counts in today's world, adding the entire planet is drawn to Indian culture and soft power. "The global community looks to us for solutions to international problems, whether terrorism, money laundering or climate change. In a globalised world, our responsibilities are also global," President Kovind said. He added that India needs to sculpt a robust, high growth economy, an educated community, and an egalitarian society as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi and Deen Dayal Upadhyay. The swearing-in ceremony took place in Parliament House. He has replaced outgoing president Pranab Mukherjee. The 71-year-old defeated opposition candidate Meira Kumar. The former Bihar governor managed to secure 65.65 percent of the votes in the Electoral College. (ANI)