PM Modi Calls on Citizens to Focus on Duties and Strengthen India’s Democracy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Constitution Day by urging people across the country to place their duties at the centre of national life and use their right to vote to strengthen India’s democratic spirit. In a message shared with citizens on Wednesday, he reflected on the adoption of the Constitution in 1949 and reminded the nation why November 26 was designated Constitution Day in 2015 — a tribute to what he described as a sacred document that has guided India for more than seven decades. The Prime Minister noted how the Constitution has opened doors for people from ordinary backgrounds to reach the highest positions of responsibility. He recalled bowing at the steps of Parliament in 2014 and placing the Constitution on his forehead in 2019 — gestures he said symbolised deep respect for the values and vision of the country’s founders. This year’s national event will be held in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan at 11 am, with the President of India presiding. The Vice-President, Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, Union Ministers and Members of Parliament will all take part. After addresses by the Speaker and the Vice-President, the President will deliver the main address, followed by a collective reading of the Preamble. Several digital launches are planned to mark the occasion. The Legislative Department will release the Constitution of India in nine additional languages — Malayalam, Marathi, Nepali, Punjabi, Bodo, Kashmiri, Telugu, Odia and Assamese. The Ministry of Culture will also unveil a Hindi booklet titled “भारत की संविधान से कला और कैलीग्राफी,” celebrating the document through art and calligraphy. In his message, the Prime Minister paid homage to the members of the Constituent Assembly, including Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the many women members whose ideas helped shape the nation’s guiding principles. He recalled earlier celebrations, such as the Samvidhan Gaurav Yatra held during the Constitution’s 60th anniversary, and the large-scale national events organised during the 75th year of the Constitution, which drew record participation from citizens. This year’s Constitution Day comes at a time marked by several important anniversaries: the 150th birthdays of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Birsa Munda, the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram,” and the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Modi said these milestones emphasise the importance of the duties listed in Article 51A. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he reminded citizens that rights naturally emerge when duties are fulfilled, and that a responsible society forms the foundation for social and economic progress. The Prime Minister also looked ahead to the future, noting that India will celebrate 100 years of independence in just over two decades and will mark the Constitution’s centenary in 2049. The decisions taken today, he said, will shape the country that future generations inherit. He encouraged young people, especially first-time voters turning 18 this year, to embrace their responsibilities and strengthen the democratic fabric of the nation. He ended his message by urging citizens to renew their commitment to duty and contribute to building what he described as a strong, confident and developed India. Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Ambedkar, Rajendra Prasad and the Constituent Assembly, saying the Constitution offers every citizen dignity, rights and responsibilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wished the nation and called on people to work towards justice, equality and the vision set by Babasaheb Ambedkar. Across India, ministries, state governments, local bodies and institutions are holding a wide range of programmes. Citizens are joining online Preamble readings, quizzes, essay competitions and cultural events under the theme “Hamara Samvidhan – Hamara Swabhiman,” making Constitution Day a nationwide celebration of democratic values. PM Modi Calls on Citizens to Focus on Duties and Strengthen India’s Democracy Today marks Constitution Day, a moment to pause and reflect on the values that guide the nation. The Prime Minister has urged every citizen to place duties at the centre of national progress, reminding us that democracy grows stronger when we participate fully, especially by voting. He highlighted how the Constitution has empowered people from all walks of life and emphasized that the choices we make today will shape the country future generations inherit. As national leaders gather in Samvidhan Sadan for the official ceremony, citizens across India are taking part in Preamble readings, cultural events, and discussions that celebrate the spirit of the Constitution. New language editions, digital launches, and creative initiatives are also being released to make the Constitution more accessible and meaningful to people everywhere. The day serves not only as a tribute to Ambedkar, Rajendra Prasad, and the members of the Constituent Assembly, but also as a reminder of the responsibilities each citizen holds. Constitution Day encourages everyone, especially young first-time voters, to embrace their role in shaping a stronger, more compassionate and more confident India.