North News
New Delhi, November 26
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Constitution Day celebrations at the Supreme Court in New Delhi on Sunday, marking the 75th year of India’s Constitution. The event was attended by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Supreme Court Judges Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice Suryakant, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Attorney General of India, and other dignitaries.
In his address, Modi extended greetings to the dignitaries, delegates, and citizens, emphasizing the immense pride of celebrating the Constitution’s legacy. He paid tribute to the framers of the Constitution, highlighting their foresight in creating a living document that evolves with the needs of a changing nation.
Modi also commemorated the anniversary of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, honoring the victims and reiterating India’s resolve to respond firmly to any threats against its security and integrity.
A Living Constitution
Recalling the Constituent Assembly’s debates, Modi quoted Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: “The Constitution is not a mere lawyer’s document; it is a spirit and a reflection of the age.” He emphasized that the framers designed the Constitution to adapt over time, ensuring it remained relevant to India’s aspirations and challenges.
“The Constitution is our guide to both the present and future,” Modi said, reflecting on its role in navigating challenges, including the Emergency period. He noted the historic first celebration of Constitution Day in Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the Constitution’s unifying power.
Social Justice and Development
Modi highlighted government initiatives aimed at advancing socio-economic justice. He cited the creation of over 53 crore bank accounts, construction of four crore homes, distribution of 10 crore gas connections to women, and the provision of over 12 crore household tap water connections in recent years. These measures, he said, reflect the Constitution’s spirit by improving citizens’ quality of life and dignity.
Touching on the Women’s Reservation Bill, he underscored efforts to enhance women’s political participation and ensure the rights of marginalized groups, including the third gender and persons with disabilities.
Human Values in Governance
Modi drew attention to the original manuscript of the Constitution, adorned with images of Indian cultural icons such as Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, and Guru Govind Singh. These symbols, he noted, serve as reminders of human values, which continue to inspire India’s policies.
He also highlighted advancements in healthcare, noting initiatives like free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh for poor families, increased immunization coverage under Mission Indradhanush, and affordable medicines through Jan Aushadi Kendras.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of infrastructure development for national progress. Through platforms like PRAGATI, over ₹18 lakh crore worth of projects have been reviewed to ensure timely completion, he said. Initiatives like drone mapping under the PM Swamitva Yojana and underwater optical fiber connections to remote islands have also strengthened India’s connectivity.
Aspirational Districts Program
Modi praised the success of the Aspirational Districts program, which has accelerated development in over 100 backward districts. The newly launched Aspirational Blocks program builds on this model to further boost progress at the grassroots level.
A Vision for a Developed India
Calling for a collective focus on building a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), Modi outlined the vision of an India where every citizen enjoys a dignified quality of life. He stressed the need for inclusive development, guided by constitutional principles, to ensure social justice for all.
Conclusion
Quoting Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s speech from November 26, 1949, Modi concluded: “What India needs today is nothing more than a group of honest people who will put the nation’s interests ahead of their own.” He expressed confidence that this spirit of putting the nation first will keep the Constitution alive for generations.
