New Delhi, 26 November (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a letter to the nation on Wednesday, marking India's Constitution Day with a call for citizens to place their duties at the forefront to achieve the vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat).

In his message, the Prime Minister emphasized that fulfilling one's duties is the foundation of social progress and a strong democracy, and he urged all citizens to strengthen the nation by exercising their right to vote.

Honouring the Constitution's Framers

The Prime Minister paid tribute to the architects of the Constitution, including Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, recalling their vision which has empowered individuals from humble backgrounds to serve at the nation's highest levels.

He reflected on his own reverence for the document, citing his gestures of bowing at the steps of Parliament in 2014 and placing the Constitution on his forehead in 2019. The letter highlighted the government's 2015 decision to formally declare November 26 as Constitution Day to honor the historic adoption of the document in 1949.

A Confluence of Anniversaries

PM Modi noted the special significance of this year's Constitution Day, which coincides with the 150th birth anniversaries of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Bhagwan Birsa Munda, as well as other historic milestones. He stated that these events serve as a reminder of the primacy of fundamental duties, as enshrined in Article 51A of the Constitution.

Recalling Mahatma Gandhi's belief that rights are derived from the performance of duties, the Prime Minister stressed that this principle is essential for the nation's progres.

A Call to Action for the Youth

Looking toward the future, the Prime Minister underscored that the country is just over two decades away from celebrating 100 years of independence. He urged that the policies and decisions of today will shape future generations and called upon citizens, particularly the youth, to embrace their responsibilities.

To this end, he suggested that schools and colleges celebrate the day by honoring first-time voters, instilling a sense of pride and duty that will fortify India's democratic values.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar