Minister Chaudhary, fresh from his participation at the World Economic Forum (WEF 2025) in Davos, shared his insights into India’s rising global recognition for its skilled workforce. “India’s talent pool is gaining immense global recognition, and our emergence as a global skill capital is a testament to our commitment to excellence,” Chaudhary remarked, underscoring the importance of skilling initiatives in empowering youth and boosting entrepreneurship. He also acknowledged the increasing importance of sustainability, artificial intelligence, and women-led development, which were central topics at the WEF discussions.

Chaudhary highlighted India’s position as the world’s largest start-up ecosystem, with 118 unicorns valued at USD 354 billion, driven by visionary policies and the resilience of entrepreneurs. The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, comprising 63 million enterprises and contributing 30 percent to the GDP, was also a focus of the minister’s address, emphasizing its role in the nation’s economic success.

One of the event’s standout moments was the recognition of Ritendra Prasad, an entrepreneur from Jharkhand. Prasad, who transitioned from an engineering background to founding his own solar energy business, was celebrated for his journey of perseverance and innovation. The event also saw the acknowledgment of 16 trailblazing entrepreneurs from India’s Northeast, including nine women, who overcame significant challenges to achieve success in their respective fields.

Namita M. Marak from Assam and Mandira Baglary from Udalguri district were among the women entrepreneurs celebrated for their resilience and contributions to their communities. Their stories highlighted the transformative power of skill development and entrepreneurship, particularly in rural and underserved areas, as they continue to inspire others to pursue similar paths of self-reliance and empowerment.

The Minister also emphasized the enduring relevance of the Indian Constitution, which serves as the foundation for India’s democracy, ensuring equality, justice, and opportunity for all citizens. This celebration of India’s skilled workforce and entrepreneurs was a proud moment for the nation, showcasing the success of government initiatives and the promising future ahead—driven by inclusive growth, innovation, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit.

The event was attended by top officials from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), including Joint Secretary Hena Usman, and was followed by a visit to the Prime Minister’s Museum, providing the entrepreneurs with an enriching experience to reflect on the nation’s democratic and developmental journey.

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Adnan Sami revealed that he had been nominated to the Padma Awards Committee by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The singer took to his Instagram account to thank the Prime Minister and the esteemed members of the committee. “I am profoundly grateful to the Honourable Prime Minister Modi ji for nominating me to the prestigious Padma Awards Committee. It has been an immense privilege to serve alongside distinguished members and be inspired by the remarkable stories of awardees from diverse walks of life,” Sami wrote in his post. He further added, “Their achievements are a testament to the indomitable spirit of India. I extend my warmest congratulations to all the Padma Awardees. It was my high honour to serve India and be part of this noble process. Jai Hind.”

The Padma Awards are among the highest civilian honors in India and are conferred annually on the recommendations of the Padma Awards Committee. This committee is constituted by the Prime Minister each year and is led by the Cabinet Secretary, with members including eminent persons from various fields. The awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, recognizing individuals for their exceptional and distinguished service in various disciplines.

In his message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Padma Awardees, emphasizing their dedication, hard work, and perseverance. “India is proud to honour and celebrate their extraordinary achievements. Their dedication and perseverance are truly motivating. Each awardee is synonymous with hard work, passion, and innovation, which has positively impacted countless lives,” Modi said. “They teach us the value of striving for excellence and serving society selflessly.”

The 2025 Padma Awards list includes a wide range of honorees from diverse sectors, including film, music, art, and social service. Among the Padma Bhushan awardees are famous actors Anant Nag, Jatin Goswami, Nandamuri Balakrishna, S Ajith Kumar, and Shekhar Kapur, as well as the late Pankaj Udhas, honored posthumously. Notable Padma Shri awardees include Arijit Singh, Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, comedian Ashok Saraf, and the Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej.

The prestigious Padma Awards will be formally conferred by the President of India in a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan, which typically takes place in March or April each year.

Through this recognition of extraordinary individuals, the Padma Awards continue to serve as a reminder of India’s rich cultural heritage, commitment to excellence, and the power of perseverance across various fields.

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The contingent, representing the Army, Navy, and Air Force, marched in perfect synchrony, reflecting the core values of discipline and unity within Indonesia’s armed forces. Dressed in honor guard uniforms, the personnel executed flawless movements, embodying the nation’s motto, “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” – Unity in Diversity. This phrase encapsulates Indonesia’s diverse cultural makeup, underlining the strength that lies in national cohesion.

Incorporating national symbols such as the Garuda emblem and the Indonesian flag, the TNI contingent demonstrated their pride and national identity. Their meticulous training and precision were on full display, reinforcing the importance of military readiness and solidarity.

Additionally, a 190-member military band from Indonesia’s Military Academy, “Genderang Suling Canka Lokananta,” also took part in the Republic Day parade, further contributing to the spectacular representation of Indonesia’s national pride and military prowess.

The participation of Indonesia in this year’s Republic Day parade was especially significant as the nation’s President, Prabowo Subianto, was invited as the chief guest for the occasion. Earlier in the day, Indian President Droupadi Murmu led the Republic Day celebrations, marking the 75th anniversary of India’s Constitution. She unfurled the national flag, assisted by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to India’s brave soldiers before the flag-hoisting ceremony, laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in honor of those who sacrificed their lives for the country.

The Indonesia-India exchange at this year’s Republic Day celebrations emphasizes the deepening ties between the two nations and reflects shared values of democracy, national pride, and unity.

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France’s Message of Friendship and Progress

The French Embassy in India took to social media to share its warm greetings, expressing, “On this 76th Republic Day, France extends its best wishes to India and its people. We celebrate your rich heritage and join in your commitment to further progress and prosperity in the years ahead.” The French message highlighted the enduring partnership between the two nations and the shared values of democracy and freedom.

Brazil’s Heartfelt Congratulations

The Embassy of Brazil in India sent a message of goodwill, saying, “On this special occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day, we extend our warmest congratulations to the people of India. Your country’s remarkable journey toward democracy and its growth on the global stage inspire us all.” The message reflected Brazil’s appreciation of India’s democratic values and its strengthening ties with the South American nation.

South Africa Celebrates with Cultural Festivities

In South Africa, the High Commission of India in Pretoria organized a festive celebration, featuring a stunning “Bhangra” folk dance performance. The event, attended by South African dignitaries and members of the Indian community, was a true reflection of India’s cultural richness. The High Commission posted a message on social media, noting, “We celebrate this important day with the people of South Africa, as we honor India’s journey toward a democratic and inclusive society.”

UAE Recognizes India’s Progressive Path

The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi marked the occasion by unfurling the Indian tricolor. Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir emphasized India’s evolving relationship with the UAE, highlighting the transformation in bilateral ties in recent years. The Embassy’s message underscored the day’s importance, stating, “Republic Day serves as a reminder of our nation’s devotion to constitutional principles and the sacrifices made for our democratic future.”

Nepal’s Warm Felicitations

Nepal’s Embassy in India also shared its best wishes, posting a message that read, “On the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day, we extend our warm felicitations to the Government and people of India. This day symbolizes India’s resilience and its continuous path toward prosperity.” Nepal’s gesture reflected the longstanding friendship between the two neighboring nations.

Russia Honors India’s Republic Day

The Russian Embassy in India joined the global chorus of congratulations, offering a message that celebrated India’s achievements. The Embassy wrote, “The Russian Embassy in India congratulates all Indian friends on the occasion of Republic Day. We recognize India’s steadfast democratic journey and the role it plays in shaping global discussions.”

China Offers Congratulations

China’s Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, shared a message of goodwill, stating, “The Chinese Embassy in India extends heartfelt congratulations to all of India’s citizens on this important day.” The greeting was a reminder of the shared history and the ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

Uzbekistan Celebrates with Cultural Performances

The Indian Embassy in Uzbekistan also marked the occasion with a cultural celebration, including lively performances by the Indian community. Ambassador Smita Pant unfurled the national flag, while sharing excerpts from the President’s Republic Day speech. The Embassy’s post expressed, “We celebrate India’s achievements and democratic values with friends and fellow Indians in Uzbekistan.”

Cambodia’s Tributes to India

In Cambodia, the Indian Embassy hosted a traditional celebration featuring the singing of the national anthem and cultural performances by members of the Indian diaspora. The Embassy’s message expressed, “On this 76th Republic Day, we honor India’s remarkable democratic journey and extend our warm wishes to all citizens of India.”

Vietnam Joins in the Global Celebration

The Indian Embassy in Vietnam, too, marked the Republic Day with flag hoisting and cultural performances. The Embassy’s message read, “As we celebrate Republic Day in Vietnam, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the bond between India and Vietnam, celebrating our shared democratic values and the achievements of India.”

Czech Embassy Celebrates India’s Unity

The Czech Embassy in India expressed admiration for India’s Constitution and its guiding principles, posting a message on social media: “The Czech Embassy in New Delhi extends warm wishes to India on its Republic Day, celebrating the spirit of unity, democracy, and the enduring strength of the nation’s constitution.”

Australia’s Message of Partnership

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong sent her greetings to India, highlighting the importance of the India-Australia relationship in the Indo-Pacific region. In a post, she wrote, “On behalf of the people of Australia, I wish India a very happy Republic Day. We are proud of our growing partnership and will continue to work with India for a peaceful and stable region.”

Japan Honors India with Patriotic Celebrations

In Japan, the Indian Embassy celebrated Republic Day with a ceremony that included the unfurling of the tricolor by Ambassador Sibi George. The Embassy shared that the celebration also featured renditions of patriotic songs by children from Indian schools, capturing the attention of the large gathering of Indian community members and their friends. Japan posted on social media, saying, “We extend our warm congratulations to India on its Republic Day, honoring its democratic spirit and rich cultural diversity.”

United States Reflects on the India-US Relationship

In the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio sent his wishes to India, recognizing the deepening relationship between the two countries. He stated, “The United States congratulates India on its Republic Day, celebrating the adoption of the Indian Constitution, which remains the foundation of the world’s largest democracy. We value our strong and growing partnership with India.”

Indonesia’s Special Invitation

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto attended India’s Republic Day celebrations as the Chief Guest. His presence underscored the deep and enduring relationship between the two nations. The day’s events, marked by a grand display of military strength, cultural diversity, and India’s achievements, symbolized the nation’s journey as the world’s largest democracy.

As India celebrated its 76th Republic Day, these global tributes reflected a shared appreciation for India’s democratic values, its progress, and its role in shaping the future of global diplomacy. The warm wishes from embassies worldwide highlighted the unity and mutual respect that India continues to inspire across the globe.

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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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During the interaction, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of national unity, diversity, and the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (One India, Great India). He encouraged participants to engage with people from different states, fostering a deeper sense of unity and solidarity. PM Modi also touched on the theme of perseverance, urging the attendees to not fear failure but to learn from it. “Never be scared of failure. There should be a spirit to learn from failure; whoever learns from failure achieves success,” he remarked, reinforcing the value of resilience and determination.

When asked about his own sources of inspiration, the Prime Minister drew strength from the tireless work of India’s farmers and soldiers. He shared, “I see farmers and feel how hard they work. I see soldiers standing guard at the borders for hours and think I don’t deserve the right to rest.” This sentiment reflected PM Modi’s unwavering commitment to a disciplined and hardworking lifestyle, which he credits as a cornerstone of his productivity.

The discussion also highlighted the role of responsible citizenship in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat. PM Modi urged the youth to take an active role in nation-building, stressing the importance of contributing to platforms like the My Bharat Portal. He advocated for the cultivation of good habits, including discipline, punctuality, and maintaining a daily diary, all of which contribute to personal and national growth.

The Prime Minister highlighted several government initiatives, particularly those aimed at empowering women. He spoke about the creation of 3 crore Lakhpati Didis (wealthy women), showcasing how such schemes have transformed lives and contributed to economic development. One participant shared a heartfelt story about their mother, whose products gained international recognition thanks to these initiatives. PM Modi also pointed to the success of the Digital India campaign, noting how affordable data rates have revolutionized connectivity and made digital services more accessible to the masses.

In terms of national cleanliness, the Prime Minister reiterated the significance of collective action. “If 140 crore Indians commit to maintaining cleanliness, India will always remain Swachh (clean),” he declared. He also championed the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, encouraging people to plant trees in honor of their mothers, further promoting environmental conservation.

The conversation concluded with a call to embrace physical well-being through the Fit India Movement, with PM Modi urging all participants to incorporate yoga and fitness routines into their daily lives for a healthier nation.

The event also saw foreign participants express their admiration for India’s warmth and hospitality, sharing their positive experiences from their visits to the country. This further reinforced the global appeal and significance of India’s rich culture and growing influence on the world stage.

Through this engaging interaction, Prime Minister Modi not only outlined his vision for a Viksit Bharat but also inspired the next generation to take responsibility for the country’s progress, fostering a collective commitment to the nation’s future.

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