Prime Minister Addresses Citizens on Constitution Day

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has written to the citizens of India on the occasion of Constitution Day on 26 November, recalling the historic adoption of the Constitution in 1949 and highlighting its continuing role in guiding the country’s development. He noted that in 2015 the Government declared 26 November as Constitution Day to honour this document.

Shri Modi outlined how the Constitution has enabled individuals from modest backgrounds to serve the nation in senior roles, referring to his own expressions of respect for Parliament and the Constitution. He recalled bowing at the steps of Parliament in 2014 and placing the Constitution on his forehead in 2019. He stated that the Constitution has given many citizens the ability to aspire and the confidence to pursue their aspirations.

Paying homage to the members of the Constituent Assembly, the Prime Minister remembered Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, and several distinguished women members whose ideas shaped the Constitution. He reflected on events such as the Samvidhan Gaurav Yatra in Gujarat during the 60th anniversary of the Constitution, as well as the special session of Parliament and nationwide programmes held to mark its 75th anniversary, noting the high level of public involvement in these observances.

He stated that this year’s Constitution Day holds particular significance as it aligns with the 150th birth anniversaries of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, and the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Shri Modi said these figures and milestones serve as reminders of the importance of duties, as set out in Article 51A of the Constitution. He recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s view that rights arise from the fulfillment of duties, emphasising that carrying out duties supports social and economic progress.

Looking ahead, Shri Modi noted that 25 years of the century have already passed, and that in just over two decades India will complete 100 years of independence. In 2049, the country will also observe 100 years since the adoption of the Constitution. He highlighted that present-day policies and decisions will influence the future of coming generations, urging citizens to keep their duties foremost as India advances toward the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

The Prime Minister also underscored the responsibility of strengthening democracy by exercising the right to vote. He suggested that schools and colleges observe Constitution Day by recognising first-time voters turning 18, expressing confidence that encouraging young people with a sense of responsibility and pride will support democratic values and the country’s progress.

Shri Modi concluded his letter by calling on citizens to renew their commitment to fulfilling their duties as members of the nation, contributing to the building of a developed and empowered India.