Satyameva Jayate

-- Rose Sanju Thomas, VII-D, Carmel School Kuwait

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

A republic is a state in which supreme power is held by the people through their elected representatives. The word republic is derived from the Latin words “res publica”, meaning a "public affair”. India became a republic with the adoption of the Constitution on January 26, 1950.

Though India officially became a republic on January 26, 1950 – we have a tradition of republican governance that dates back to the Vedic era with the practice of having elected rulers who delegated authority to Sabhas (councils) and Samitis (committees). Down the ages and to this day, India has been a shining example of a nation built on sound republican values. Our founding fathers and visionary leaders have made the constitution and people power the pillars of nationhood.

The constitution is the supreme law of India and the soul of our government. It was drafted by the constituent assembly. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the chairman of the constitution drafting committee and is rightfully called the “Father of the Indian constitution”. The Indian constitution has taken enlightening ideas from the constitutions of other countries like – UK, USA, France, USSR, Canada, Australia. The Indian constitution is the world's longest and most comprehensive constitution. All branches of the Indian Government – the executive, legislative and judiciary receive their power from the constitution and are bound by it. November 26 is celebrated annually as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas). The preamble of the constitution defines India as a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic Republic.

To commemorate the adoption of the constitution, India celebrates Republic Day. This day has a special place in the hearts of every Indian – especially children. It is a day India celebrates her rich cultural heritage and exhibits her military might. The central attraction of 26th January is the republic day parade in New Delhi. The parade begins with our Prime Minister honoring the martyrs and fallen soldiers at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate. It is followed by a 21-gun salute. The Republic Day parade is presided over by the President of India (the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces). The parade begins with the unfurling of the National flag, as the National Anthem is played and a 21- gun salute is given. Next, important military and civilian bravery awards are given by the President. This is followed by the Indian Armed Forces exhibiting their military might. The military parade is followed by a cultural parade which involves tableaus and cultural performances from various states. Children who are recipients of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar award ride past the dais in decorated elephants. The parade ends with daredevil motorcycle riding and a fly past by Indian Air Force fighter jets over Rajpath. India is a country with a rich history and a vast diversity. Moving into the future it should be the responsibility of all Indians to preserve, protect and strengthen the Indian republic. The best way to achieve this is through practicing “good governance and responsible citizenship”. We should pursue constitutional methods and recognise liberty, equality and fraternity as the principles of life. On the 73rd Republic day of our great nation, let us take a solemn pledge to strive to make India the republic of the future. “Every nation has a message to deliver, a mission to fulfill, a destiny to reach. The mission of India has been to guide humanity” …. Swami Vivekananda. Thank You

Rose Sanju Thomas, VII-D, Carmel School Kuwait