As India being 75 years old on 26 January, it entertains the 76th year into its existence. The country has traversed various phases in life for these 76 years, probably maturing to a living and vibrant republic. However, it is rational to take stock of what has been achieved through gains and pains along its journey, especially through the prism of its Constitution. The Constitution, having come into effect from January 26, 1950, stands for democracy, socialism, secularism, equality, fraternity, and social justice. The Constitution is the lifeblood of our republic. The preamble of the Constitution of India, as amended to July 2024, states:"We the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic." It was on November 26, 1949, that the Constitution was officially adopted, enacted, and given to the people. Hence, the people of India, in 1949, finally resolved to form a democratic, socialist, secular republic and further provided themselves with a guideline on how to govern. The schedule in the preamble has its own vision: It is the light of the future in which India is expected to be a democratic and socialistic republic. It is the sacred duty of the citizens of India to protect such values and words so that the glorious path shown by the founding fathers of the Constitution remains open for the nation. As proud citizens, we have to uphold the basic tenets of the Constitution to survive as a successful democratic republic and give political, social, and cultural impetus to the people of India. The preamble serves as an introduction, elucidating the intentions of the framers, the core values and principles, and the backdrop against which the Constitution was made.
The preamble, accepted in its text by the constituent assembly on January 22nd, 1947, adopted on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950, in India, is celebrated as Republic Day. It should be placed on record that the three words-'socialist,' 'secular,' and 'integrity '-were inserted into the preamble during the Indian emergency in 1976 under Indira Gandhi. Consequently, the government of India tried to maintain the spirit of the preamble at the national, state, and union territory levels, aimed at bringing about an egalitarian society. This stance commits the government to recreate the values and principles set forth in the constitution in an aspirational manner. The objectives and values which the preamble mentions are weighty and should be zealously pursued if an equalitarian society is to emerge. The central government, state governments, Union Territories, political parties, NGOs, and, last but not least, the people—themselves sovereign and masters of their destiny—should cooperate with the authorities in making sure that the objectives and values enshrined in the preamble are achieved. It is necessary to put the values and principles of the constitution in all government policies, programs, and schemes. The preamble outlines the guiding purposes and principles of the Indian constitution, and both central or state governments have undertaken to follow the path laid down by the founding fathers by making consistent efforts to implement the objectives as set forth in the constitution.
The preamble of the constitution encapsulates the fundamental values that signify its meaning, often described as constituting its soul and essence. Over the last 76 years, as the Indian republic journeyed in the path of challenges and cultivations, with the passing years, our democracy stands-up stronger, holding a pride in our nation. India is making great strides in economic, social, and political spheres in best pursuing the principles and values of the constitution. Having progressed a long way in countless spheres, there remain the abounding challenges of shrinking the divide between the rich and poor. Such corrective steps on our part become necessary by our country to fulfill the vision of the founders of the constitution. Having conducted successfully in the peaceful environment guiding the elections, eighteen general elections and various assembly elections under the independent authority of the Election Commission of India are one great achievement for India. These elections allowed India to carve and improve amongst nations that have trudged such a road with a breathtaking view. Over the 76 years, therefore, our republic and democracy have thickened their roots to become that much-greater resilience, stability, dynamism, and robustness.
On this day in 1950, India became a republic and pledged itself to the values of democracy. It shows progress and advancements made in the economic growth of the country, technology, and social reforms. The spirit of this day is essentially that of democracy and self-governance by the people. The Republic Day parade in New Delhi is a riot of colors, showcasing the cultural diversity of India and, together with military prowess, showing off the theme of unity in diversity. It is a reminder of India's journey towards self-governance and the tenet of justice, equality, and fraternity. It's a matter of extreme pride that India has a strong growth story to brag about over the last 76 years. From a GDP of $2700 billion in 1947, India grew to a whopping $3.53 trillion in 2021, making it, in essence, the sixth-largest economy in the world. India took the position of the fifth-largest economy in the world by 2025 and a bid to become the third-largest economy in the very near future. Huge strides in technology have emerged, making India into a technological powerhouse and exporting skilled professionals around the globe. Social reforms have played a major role, and India's global footprints have widened. Under Modi's government, over the last decade, India's standing on the international stage has strengthened, with a louder voice now heard about global issues. The popularity of both India and Modi has reached rather impressive heights, thanks to the diplomatic outreach offered by the Modi government. Over the last 75 years, India has progressed remarkably well in various sectors: agriculture, heavy industry, irrigation, energy, nuclear fulfills, space technology, biotechnology, telecommunications, oceanography, and scientific research.
India's rich cultural diversity and military power will be prominently displayed during the Republic Day parade on January 26, 2025. The emphasis will be laid on the 75th anniversary of the constitution and the concept of Jan Bhagidari this year. A total of 31 tableaux from various states, union territories, and ministries and departments of the Indian government will participate, and the tableau will reflect the theme "Swarnim Bharat-Virasat aur Vikas.'' It will be an appropriate way to celebrate the 76th Republic Day, where citizens of India will commit once again to follow the path laid down by the constitution and strive to make the dream of our founding fathers. Long live the Indian Republic and democracy. Tatha Aastu.
(Vivek Koul)
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