Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Constitution Day with a detailed letter to the nation, emphasising that India’s progress hinges on citizens placing their duties at the heart of daily life. Released on the 76th anniversary of the Constitution’s adoption, the letter blends personal reflections, national milestones and a strong call for greater civic participation.
Call to strengthen the constitution through duty
PM Modi underscored that the country can move confidently toward the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 only when every citizen embraces responsibility. He stated that 'every action of ours should strengthen the Constitution and further national goals and interests,' urging people to cultivate a deep sense of gratitude toward the nation. According to him, 'when we live with this feeling, fulfilling our duties becomes integral to our nature'.
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The Prime Minister also shared how the Constitution shaped his own journey, noting that its empowering spirit enabled someone from a modest background to rise to the highest elected office. 'It is the power of our Constitution that enabled a person like me, coming from a humble and economically disadvantaged family, to serve as the Head of the Government,' he wrote. He recalled two symbolic gestures, bowing at Parliament’s steps in 2014 and placing the Constitution on his forehead in 2019, as moments that reflect his respect for India’s democratic foundations.
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Honouring constitutional visionaries and inspiring voters
PM Modi paid tribute to the framers of the Constitution, including Dr Rajendra Prasad, Dr B. R. Ambedkar and the prominent women members of the Constituent Assembly, appreciating their 'thoughtful interventions and visionary perspectives' that shaped the nation’s guiding document.
He also pointed out the unique significance of this year’s Constitution Day, which overlaps with landmark anniversaries such as the 150th birth anniversaries of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Birsa Munda, the 150th year of Vande Mataram and the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur; all of which, he said, highlight the enduring importance of Fundamental Duties.
Stressing the role of citizens in strengthening democracy, he called voting a crucial national obligation, reminding people that 'as citizens, it is our duty to never miss the opportunity to vote'. He suggested schools and colleges hold annual events on November 26 to welcome first-time voters and encourage youth engagement.
As India approaches milestones like the centenary of Independence in 2047 and the Constitution’s 100th year in 2049, PM Modi said that choices made now will 'shape the lives of generations to come.'