Live Blog: Putin's State-Of-The-Nation Address As It Happened

This year, he says, Russians should experience improvements in their lives.

First applause from the audience comes after Putin says anyone not fully committed to accelerating Russia's progress should "just get out." Few specifics in the opening of his speech. Lots of talk about "long-term goals" and stepping up "pace" of development.

Some pressure on "tandem" partner Medvedev: The government must set the tone for actions to achieve Russia's goals, Putin says.

The goal of the programs is to protect the people. Based on family. "We will do everything to strengthen the family," he says, calling on the government, parties, religious organizations, etc. to fulfill them. Says the country is experiencing a difficult demographic time, although progress has been made since Putin came to power in 2000.

Putin says Russia has hit a "very difficult demographic" situation and that the birthrate is falling, but that the country must fight this. He says he's "confident" Russia can succeed in this sphere.

Now discussing state policy on payments and benefits to mothers having more than one child. Says mothers earning up to two times the "survival minimum" should be eligible for subsidies for having children.

Proposes raising the subsidies for ill and handicapped children.

Putin calls for reducing taxes for families on the principle "the more children, the lower the taxes."

Calls for reducing property taxes for families with more than one child.

Putin 5 minutes late for speech in which he says officials who can't get things done on time should step aside