The President emphasized that the Constitution had evolved into a living document, deeply intertwined with India’s civilizational ethos of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity—values that have guided the country for millennia. She referred to the Constitution as a testament to the moral compass that has been part of India’s heritage long before modern times.

Reflecting on the history of the Constitution, Murmu highlighted the efforts of the Constituent Assembly, which after nearly three years of deliberations, adopted the Constitution on November 26, 1949. This day is now observed annually as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas), a tribute to the founding principles of the Republic. She stated that while 75 years may seem like a brief moment in the life of a nation, they have marked a significant phase of India’s resurgence on the world stage, reclaiming its rightful place among the great civilizations of history.

Drawing attention to India’s long history of knowledge and wisdom, Murmu acknowledged the dark period of colonial exploitation that stifled the nation’s progress. However, she also paid tribute to the freedom fighters who made monumental sacrifices for India’s independence. This year, the nation is commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a key figure in India’s freedom struggle, whose contributions are now being properly recognized.

President Murmu also celebrated the intellectual and moral leadership of figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who helped India rediscover its democratic values. These leaders championed ideals that were not new to Indian civilization but were integral to its cultural fabric. She pointed out that, despite initial doubts by critics about the sustainability of India’s democracy, the country’s values have proven resilient.

One of the highlights of her speech was the recognition of the role women played in shaping the nation. The Constituent Assembly, which drafted the Constitution, included 15 women, some of whom—like Sarojini Naidu, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, and Sucheta Kripalani—were trailblazers in their own right. Murmu noted that while gender equality was still a distant dream in many parts of the world, India had already made significant strides by including women in the nation-building process.

In her address, the President concluded by expressing profound gratitude to Dr. Ambedkar and the members of the Constituent Assembly for their tireless efforts in crafting the document that has guided India for the past 75 years. She called on the citizens to reflect on the Constitution’s continued relevance and the immense responsibility it bestows on every Indian to uphold its values and ensure the continued progress of the nation.

This Republic Day, President Murmu’s address served as a reminder of the lasting legacy of India’s Constitution, a document that not only defines the legal framework of the nation but also unites its people under the shared banner of democracy, justice, and equality.

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Marking the occasion, PM Modi paid tribute to the framers of the Constitution and highlighted their foresight in creating a document flexible enough to adapt to India’s evolving needs. He stated that every citizen today shares a singular vision—to build a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

Reflecting on the day’s significance, the Prime Minister also paid homage to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, reaffirming India’s commitment to delivering a strong response to threats against its security and sovereignty.

Constitution: A Pillar of Resilience and Progress

PM Modi underlined the Constitution’s pivotal role in navigating India’s challenges over the decades, including the Emergency period, and its capacity to adapt to societal and economic transformations. “Our Constitution is a guide to our present and our future,” he said, praising its framers for ensuring it serves as a framework for justice and equity.

He noted that the Indian Constitution, as envisioned by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, is now fully implemented across Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting its unifying power. Highlighting symbols of Indian culture within the original Constitution, he mentioned depictions of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lord Hanuman, Bhagwan Buddha, Bhagwan Mahavira, and Guru Gobind Singh, which emphasize India’s human values.

Achievements and Initiatives

The Prime Minister highlighted several socio-economic advancements made under his government:

• Financial Inclusion: Over 53 crore bank accounts opened in the last decade.
• Housing and Utilities: More than four crore pucca houses and over 12 crore tap water connections provided, benefiting citizens and particularly easing the lives of women.
• Healthcare: Free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh offered to every poor family and senior citizens over 70 years, along with affordable medicines available at Jan Aushadi Kendras.
• Infrastructure: Enhanced connectivity through 4G/5G mobile networks, underwater optical fiber connections for islands, and drone mapping under the PM Swamitva Yojana.
• Immunization: Near 100% child immunization under Mission Indradhanush.

PM Modi stressed the timely completion of infrastructure projects, citing reviews of projects worth ₹18 lakh crore via the PRAGATI platform. He affirmed that such initiatives reflect the Constitution’s guiding spirit and foster rapid national progress.

A Living Document for a Changing Nation

Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal described the Constitution as the cornerstone of India’s unity and democracy, referring to it as a “living document” of ideals. Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, along with other Supreme Court judges and dignitaries, joined the event where PM Modi also released the Annual Report of the Indian Judiciary 2023-24.

The Prime Minister concluded by urging citizens to uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution as India continues its journey toward becoming a developed nation.

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The Constitution, drafted under the leadership of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, serves as the backbone of India’s governance and guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens. The day, also known as Samvidhan Divas, is observed with educational programs, discussions on constitutional values, and tributes to the framers of the document.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional values to ensure the nation’s progress. Schools, colleges, and organizations across the country conducted activities promoting awareness about citizens’ rights and duties.

Constitution Day is a reminder of India’s commitment to democracy and the power of its people to shape a just and equitable society.

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