Dehradun: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday inaugurated Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Niketan in Dehradun, marking a significant step towards inclusive development and ecological preservation. She also unveiled several new public amenities, including a visitor facilitation centre, cafeteria, souvenir shop, and laid the foundation stone for the upcoming Rashtrapati Udyan, envisioned as a model public park.
On the occasion of her birthday, the President visited the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) and interacted with students. She also toured the Model School’s Science and Computer Labs and an exhibition showcasing students’ work.
Speaking at the event, President Murmu stated, “The true progress of any nation or society is reflected in how it treats its persons with disabilities.” She highlighted India’s cultural legacy of compassion and inclusivity and appreciated the government’s efforts under the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, which focuses on creating an accessible environment in terms of infrastructure, transportation, communication, and information systems.
The President stressed that in the era of rapid scientific advancement, technology has the power to integrate Divyangjan into the mainstream, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to society. She lauded NIEPVD’s focus on holistic and inclusive education using cutting-edge technology, and called for continued societal support to empower persons with disabilities across all spheres of life.
On this occasion, the President also released a book documenting the rich biodiversity of Rashtrapati Niketan, Rashtrapati Tapovan, and the upcoming Rashtrapati Udyan. The publication lists over 300 species of flora and 170 species of fauna—including butterflies, birds, and mammals—native to these estates.
A day earlier, on Thursday, President Murmu had also inaugurated a newly constructed amphitheatre at Rashtrapati Niketan.
About the Presidential Estates:
Rashtrapati Tapovan, located on Rajpur Road, is a 19-acre serene retreat in the foothills of the Himalayas. It was established as a Presidential Retreat in 1976 and now functions as a centre of spiritual and ecological significance, with rich native biodiversity including 117 plant species, 52 butterflies, 41 bird species, and 7 species of wild mammals.
Rashtrapati Niketan, with a legacy dating back to 1838, spans 21 acres. Originally a summer camp for the Governor General’s bodyguard, it features heritage buildings, lily ponds, orchards, and stables.
Rashtrapati Udyan, set to become a 132-acre Net-Zero public park, will emphasize ecological responsibility and universal accessibility. It aims to serve as a community hub promoting wellness, cultural engagement, and civic pride. The park is designed to be fully accessible to persons with disabilities.
Both Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Niketan will be opened for public visits from June 24 and July 1, respectively.
