New Delhi, Aug. 14 -- Public examinations are "gateways to the opportunities" available to students, and the government is undertaking "comprehensive steps" to curb unfair practices and make the system more transparent, secure and trustworthy, President Droupadi Murmu said on Friday, as she highlighted the opportunities opening up for India's youth and outlined the country's progress in her address to the nation on the eve of the 80th Independence Day.

Addressing the nation, Murmu said 65% of India's population is below the age of 35, describing the country's youth as its "most valuable asset" and highlighting their role in entrepreneurship, space research, innovation and job creation.

"Our students are the architects of India's future....