New Delhi, Jan. 25 -- President Droupadi Murmu today said India has shaken off the pandemic effect and become the fifth-largest economy in the world.

In her Republic Day address, she said India has made the most encouraging progress on the economic front. "Last year, India became the fifth largest economy in the world. It needs to be underlined that this achievement comes against the backdrop of high economic uncertainties around the world. The pandemic has entered its fourth year, affecting economic growth in most parts of the world. In its initial phase, Covid-19 also hurt India's economy badly. Yet, guided by our able leadership and driven by our resilience, we soon came out of the downturn, and resumed the growth saga," she said.

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