Republic Day 2024:The Mother of Democracy
India, a nation known for its rich tapestry of diversity and cultural heritage, commemorates Republic Day with tremendous vitality and patriotism on the 26th of January each year. The day marked when the constitution came into effect by replacing the Government of India Act 1935 as the governing country of India. Republic Day is a commemoration that pays homage to our democratic ideals, venerates the sacrifices of freedom fighters, and acknowledges the profound spirit of unity that defines our nation.
How do we celebrate Republic Day?
Every year, a public parade is held in Delhi, which features spectacular military and cultural pageantry. The celebrations are held in Raisaina Hills near Rashtrapati Bhavan, on Kartavya Path, and the historic Red Fort. These ceremonious parades are performed as a tribute to India, its diversity, and rich cultural heritage. March-Pasts by personnel of the Indian Army which showcases our diversity and culture. The ceremony starts after the president unfurls the flag, following the national anthem, and 21 statues of guns are given. The celebrations of the republic last for three days and end with a Beating Retreat Ceremony. Prominent dignitaries from all over the world came to attend the event. Likewise, different programs such as flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, Republic Day speeches, and various competitions on Republic Day slogans are held by schools and colleges. Various air maneuvers are also performed by the Aircraft of the Indian Air Force, Navy, and Army.
The President of India also distributes Padma Awards to deserving civilians and brave soldiers are awarded Paramvir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, and Vir Chakra.
Difference between Paramveer chakra/Ashok Chakra and Vir Chakra
It is the highest military decoration awarded for the highest degree of Valor in the presence of the enemy. Introduced on 26th January 1950, this award “Param Chakra” means Wheel of the Ultimate Brave.
The Ashoka Chakra is awarded for valor, courageous action, or self-sacrifice displayed away from the battlefield. It was established as Ashok chakra class 1, by the president of India on 4th January 1952, with effect from 15th August 1947, which indicates that the establishment had retroactive implications, meaning it was considered effective from August 15, 1947, the date of India’s independence.
Vir Chakra is given to acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy, whether on land, sea, or air. It was also established by the president on the 26th of January 1950.
India: Mother of Democracy
India is the world’s largest democracy. Democracy means government of the people, by the people, and for the people. India stands as a living testament to its unwavering dedication to the foundation's progression, unveiling a narrative deeply rooted in these guiding values. India’s journey as a democracy began in 1950, when our constitution came into effect, establishing the Republic of India. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar envisioned a country that would flourish on the tenets of democracy. The architects sought to guarantee political representation for every citizen within its borders.
The theme is taken from a summit that was held in New Delhi, an engagement group led by parliamentary speakers of G20 countries. The summit had several events. One was an exhibition called “Mother of Democracy” highlighting India’s ancient democratic traditions and values. India’s enduring democratic heritage underscores the significance of harmony and inclusivity, values deeply ingrained in the fabric of Indian culture moving across epochs of the contemporary era. India has a history of rich and ancient traditions of democracy, boasting the principles of democratic governance that have been an integral part of the Indian subcontinent for centuries.
The foundation of Indian democracy rests significantly on the concept of Dharma, highlighting the principles of democratic governance that have been an indispensable part of the Indian subcontinent for centuries. The basic fundamental values of harmony, liberty, tolerance, equality, and inclusiveness serve as the backbone of the dignified lives of its citizens.
Democracy and Women
For any democratic country to flourish, it needs its women to be active architects rather than playing the passive role of being spectators in the building of the nation. This journey towards a supreme democracy needs the elimination of barriers for every marginalized community. The most important factor in democracy is the right to vote. Suffrage or the right to vote is an essential human right. In different societies, people had to suffer and fight for their basic right to vote. Still, women in India were granted voting rights along with men under the new constitution after achieving independence from British colonialism. It was the 1870s when the suffrage movement began in the West. It was an important issue since it was related to the subordination of women, especially in terms of legal matters and rights. There is a term called political participation, which is more than just the right to vote but taking part in decision-making, political activism, political consciousness, and more.
India continues to play the role of the most extensive democracy and holds a deep dedication to the principles of democracy, diversity, and social justice. With various factors like education, inclusivity, intersectionality, and political representation, we strive to remain supreme in being the biggest democratic.