The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee attended the 75th birthday celebrations of Shri Sushilkumar Shinde, former Union Home Minister at Solapur, Maharashtra today (September 4, 2016).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said by overcoming the odds of an extremely humble background and various handicaps without bitterness, Shri Shinde rose and to the highest positions in the country. This shows his steely mind, single-mindedness, courage and determination. His story is the story of India. India too has overcome many difficulties backwardness, illiteracy, disease and ignorance. It is the shining example of the success of Indian democracy. We must celebrate this strength. Shri Shinde stands out as an inspiration for millions in our country.

This release issued at 1635 hrs.