New Delhi, July 25 - In a fitting culmination to a four-decade long distinguished career, ‘Chankya’ of Indian politics Pranab Mukherjee took over as the 13th President of the Republic of India on Wednesday.

Pranab Mukherjee was administered the oath of office by Chief Justice of India SH Kapadia at the Central Hall of Parliament at 11.30 am.

The oath said: “I, Pranab Mukherjee, do swear in the name of God that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the Republic of India, and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and the law, and that I will devote myself to the service and well-being of the people of the Republic of India.”

The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, cabinet ministers and other dignitaries. Mukherkee’s family along with other relatives from West Bengal were also present in full strength to witness Pranab occupy the highest constitutional chair of the country.

The three Service Chiefs were also present to witness the 76-year old veteran of many a political battle taking over as the supreme commander of the Indian armed forces.

After he takes over, President Pranab Mukherjee will be given a 21-gun salute. He will then address the gathering and then leave for the Rashtrapati Bhavan with the outgoing President Pratibha Patil.

At the Presidential Palace, Mukherjee will be given an inter-services guard of honour – Hazaar Salam. They will then proceed to the library and exchange views. Later, Mukherejee will escort Pratibha Patil to her new accommodation at Tughlak Lane where she will stay till her post-retirement home in Pune is ready. Thereafter Pranab will return to Rashtrapati Bhavan and begin his tenure.

Source: ZEENEWS