New Delhi: Vice-President of India and Rajya Sabha Chairman, C.P. Radhakrishnan, addressed the Constitution Day event today at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan. He spoke about the vision, values, and lasting importance of India’s Constitution.
The Vice-President said that since 2015, November 26 has been observed as Constitution Day, which has now become a celebration for all citizens. He praised the great leaders — Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar, Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer, Durgabai Deshmukh, and others — who created the Constitution. He said their work reflects the soul of India on every page.
He added that the Constitution was drafted and debated by some of the finest leaders of the nation. Their collective wisdom and sacrifices fulfilled the hopes of millions who fought for freedom and helped India become the world’s largest democracy. He said the Constitution, built on intellect, experience, and aspiration, has kept India united.
Speaking about development, the Vice-President said India has made remarkable progress through practical and inclusive policies. He noted that India has become the world’s fourth-largest economy and is on track to become the third-largest. In the last decade, 25 crore people have risen out of poverty, and more than 100 crore citizens are now covered under various social security schemes — achievements he said were once thought impossible.
He said that democracy has been part of India’s culture since ancient times, mentioning examples like Vaishali in the north and the Chola dynasty’s “kudavolai” system in the south. He said high voter turnout in recent elections in Jammu & Kashmir and Bihar shows people’s strong faith in democracy.
The Vice-President also paid tribute to the women members of the Constituent Assembly. He recalled Hansa Mehta’s words calling for social, economic, and political justice. He said the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam of 2023 honours their contributions by ensuring greater representation for women. He also recognised the role of tribal communities in India’s freedom movement and noted that Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas has been observed since 2021 to honour them.
He said the Constitution reflects India’s commitment to social justice and economic empowerment for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes, and weaker sections. The ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity ensure equal rights for all citizens, regardless of caste, gender, language, region, or religion.
The Vice-President said that as the global economy and geopolitical environment change, India needs reforms in the electoral, judicial, and financial systems. He said initiatives like GST (One Nation–One Tax) and the JAM trinity (Jan-Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) have made governance simpler and more efficient. He encouraged citizens to use technology responsibly and contribute to building a developed India.
In conclusion, Shri Radhakrishnan said the best way to honour the Constitution is to follow its values and work together for a strong, inclusive, and prosperous India by 2047.