Speech on Republic Day

Good morning to all of you present here,

On this auspicious occasion of Republic Day, I stand before you with great pride and reverence as we commemorate the day when India adopted its Constitution and became a sovereign democratic republic. Republic Day is not only a day of celebration, but also a moment to reflect on the journey of our great nation, honor our history, and recognize the sacrifices made by our forefathers in the pursuit of freedom, equality, and justice.

On January 26, 1950, India became a republic, as the Constitution of India came into force. It was on this day that our nation’s legal framework, drafted by a constituent assembly led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, laid the foundation of India as a democratic republic governed by the rule of law. The significance of this day is immeasurable as it marks the transformation of India from a colony under British rule to an independent and sovereign nation, capable of charting its own destiny.

The Historical Context: To understand the importance of Republic Day, we must first delve into the historical context that led to India’s independence. For centuries, India was under foreign rule, first under the Mughals and later the British Empire. India’s struggle for independence was long, arduous, and filled with countless sacrifices. Great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and countless others contributed their lives to the freedom movement.

The Indian National Congress, led by leaders like Gandhi and Nehru, advocated for a nonviolent struggle for independence. The Quit India Movement of 1942, the Salt March, and other protests were symbols of resistance against British oppression. After years of struggle, sacrifice, and perseverance, India achieved its independence on August 15, 1947.

However, independence alone was not enough. India’s future needed a roadmap, a document that would ensure justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all its citizens. Thus, the drafting of the Constitution was initiated, and on January 26, 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect, replacing the Government of India Act 1935. From that moment, India’s future was defined not by colonial rule, but by its own people, for its own people.

The Significance of the Constitution: The Constitution of India is the longest written constitution of any sovereign nation. It is a comprehensive document that outlines the political framework of the country, detailing the powers and duties of the government, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the fundamental principles upon which the country is governed. The preamble to the Constitution speaks of India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic, committed to justice, liberty, and equality for all its citizens.

The Constitution was not just a legal document; it was a reflection of the aspirations of a diverse, pluralistic, and multi-lingual society. It provides for a parliamentary system of governance, with a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislature, and judiciary. It guarantees fundamental rights to every citizen, including the right to equality, freedom of speech, and the right to life and liberty. The Constitution also includes provisions for affirmative action for historically marginalized communities, ensuring social justice and inclusion.

The adoption of the Constitution laid the foundation for building a modern and inclusive nation that would promote democracy, peace, and progress. As we celebrate Republic Day, we also honor the framers of the Constitution and the vision they had for a united and just India.

The Spirit of Republic Day: Republic Day is not just about the legal transition of India into a republic, but also about the spirit of unity, patriotism, and national pride. The Republic Day celebrations, especially the grand parade in New Delhi, showcase India’s rich cultural diversity and the strength of its democratic traditions. The Republic Day parade at Rajpath is a spectacular display of India's military prowess, cultural heritage, and technological advancements. It is a reminder of how far we have come since 1950 and how much we have achieved.

The parade brings together the armed forces, schoolchildren, cultural troupes, and various states, each contributing to the representation of India’s unity in diversity. The tableaux that participate in the parade are a window into the cultural richness of each state, highlighting India’s history, art, and heritage. The moment when the national flag is unfurled by the President of India and the national anthem is sung in unison is a moment of immense pride for every citizen. It symbolizes our collective identity and the undying spirit of India.

Republic Day is a reminder that our diversity is our strength. With over 2,000 distinct languages and dialects, a variety of cultures, religions, and traditions, India is often described as a melting pot of different ideas, beliefs, and customs. Yet, we are united by our common identity as Indians. Republic Day celebrates this unity, reminding us that we must respect each other's differences and work together for the progress of our nation.

Challenges and Opportunities: While Republic Day is a day to celebrate our achievements, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges that lie ahead. India, as a developing nation, faces several challenges such as poverty, unemployment, inequality, and environmental degradation. The quest for economic growth, coupled with the need for social justice, is a delicate balancing act that requires concerted efforts from all sectors of society.

Our democracy, though strong, faces threats in the form of intolerance, divisiveness, and a lack of respect for the rule of law. It is crucial for us, as citizens, to safeguard the values enshrined in the Constitution and ensure that our actions, both individually and collectively, reflect the ideals of justice, equality, and fraternity.

India has made remarkable progress in areas such as space exploration, technology, education, and health. Yet, there are still challenges in providing quality healthcare, education, and employment opportunities to all citizens, particularly those in rural and marginalized communities. The government, civil society, and individuals must work together to create a more equitable and prosperous nation.

Republic Day calls upon us to reaffirm our commitment to the nation and its Constitution. We must ask ourselves what it means to be a citizen of India. It means embracing the ideals of democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law. It means working towards the welfare of others and contributing to the nation’s progress. It means rejecting hate, intolerance, and discrimination in all their forms.

A Vision for the Future: As we celebrate Republic Day, we must also look ahead with hope and optimism. India stands at a crucial juncture in its history. The world is witnessing rapid advancements in technology, globalization, and environmental challenges. India must continue to adapt to these changes while staying true to the values that have guided it since its independence.

India’s young population is its greatest asset. The energy, creativity, and innovation of the youth will shape the future of the nation. It is essential that we invest in education, skill development, and opportunities for young people to realize their full potential. As we look towards the future, we must strive to build a nation where every citizen has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life, where inequality is reduced, and where the environment is protected for future generations.

Conclusion: In conclusion, Republic Day is a time to honor the past, celebrate the present, and envision a brighter future for our nation. It is a reminder of the values that bind us together as a nation, and the responsibilities that we carry as citizens of this great republic. On this day, let us pledge to uphold the ideals of our Constitution, work towards the progress of our nation, and contribute to the well-being of all our fellow citizens.

As we hoist the tricolor today, let us remember the sacrifices made by countless individuals who have given their lives for the cause of India’s freedom and progress. Let us salute the heroes of our nation, both known and unknown, who have made India what it is today.

Jai Hind!