Indian History
Republic Day 2026
- 27 Jan 2026
- 16 min read
For Prelims: Constitution of India, Purna Swaraj, Vande Mataram, Government of India Act, 1935, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee
For Mains: Historical significance of Republic Day and Purna Swaraj, Transition from colonial rule to constitutional democracy
Why in News?
Republic Day 2026 marked the 77th anniversary of the Constitution of India coming into force on 26th January 1950, and was celebrated around the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram.”
- The observance blended constitutional values with cultural expression and public participation, featuring 30 tableaux from States, Union Territories, and Ministries under the sub-themes Swatantrata ka Mantra – Vande Mataram and Samriddhi ka Mantra – Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- The celebration also saw the parade debut of the newly raised Bhairav Battalion, a specialised assault infantry unit. In addition, a military contingent from the European Union participated. It was the EU’s first participation at such an event outside Europe.
Summary
- Republic Day 2026 marked the 77th anniversary of the Constitution under the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram,” celebrating India’s constitutional legacy through cultural tableaux, public participation, and military display.
- The occasion also highlighted national service and sacrifice through Padma Awards, gallantry medals, and defence decorations, reflecting India’s democratic values, unity, and institutional strength.
What is the Historical Significance of Republic Day?
- The Purna Swaraj Resolution: In December 1929, the Indian National Congress passed the historic ‘Purna Swaraj’ (Complete Independence) resolution at its Lahore Session (presided over by Jawaharlal Nehru).
- It was decided that 26th January 1930, would be observed as Purna Swaraj Day across India. On this day, Indians pledged to reject British dominion status and fight for complete self-rule.
- From 1930 to 1947, 26th January was celebrated as "Independence Day" or "Poorna Swaraj Day."
- Transition from Independence to Republic: The Constituent Assembly first met in December 1946 at the Constitution Hall (now Central Hall of Parliament), formally initiating India’s constitution-making process.
- On 15th August 1947, India achieved independence from colonial rule but continued as a British Dominion with King George VI as the head of state until the Constitution came into force.
- The constitutional transition was completed on 26th November 1949, when the Constituent Assembly formally adopted the Constitution, a date explicitly recorded in the Preamble.
- On 26th January 1950, the Constitution of India came into force, deliberately chosen to honour the Purna Swaraj Declaration of 1930.
- With this, the Government of India Act, 1935 was replaced.
- India formally became a Sovereign Democratic Republic.
- The President of India replaced the British Monarch as the Head of State, symbolizing the true essence of a Republic.
- Later, the 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976) added the words Socialist and Secular to the Preamble.
What are the Key Highlights of the Tableaux Displayed at the 77th Republic Day Parade?
- Assam: Highlighted Asharikandi village and its centuries-old terracotta craft tradition.
- Gujarat: Paid tribute to Madam Bhikaji Cama, the revolutionary who unfurled the first version of the Indian flag in Germany (1907).
- Depicted the evolution of the Indian National Flag from 1906 to 1947. It concluded with a sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi with the Charkha, linking Swadeshi to modern Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- Uttar Pradesh: Highlighted Bundelkhand’s cultural heritage alongside modern development.
- Maharashtra: It showcased Ganeshotsav as a social movement initiated by Lokmanya Tilak for national unity
- West Bengal: It honoured the origins of the national song Vande Mataram, composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee.
- It featured statues of freedom fighters such as Subhas Chandra Bose, Matangini Hazra, and Khudiram Bose, highlighting Bengal’s pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle.
- Punjab: Paid a solemn tribute to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji on the 350th year of his martyrdom, honouring him as Hind Di Chadar (Protector of India).
- Kerala: Featured the Kochi Water Metro (India's first water metro) and celebrated the state's achievement of 100% Digital Literacy.
- Tri-Services (Department of Military Affairs): Under the theme “Operation Sindoor – Victory Through Jointness” showcased India’s integrated military strength.
- The tableau featured Rafale jets with SCALP missiles, the BrahMos cruise missile, the S-400 air defence system, and HAROP loitering munitions, symbolising the shift towards joint warfare.
- Ministry of Culture: It artistically traced the 150-year journey of Vande Mataram.
- Ministry of Home Affairs (NDMA & NDRF): Commemorated recovery after the 2001 Bhuj Earthquake.
What are the Key Highlights of the 77th Republic Day?
- Padma Awards 2026: 131 Padma Awards, including 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, 113 Padma Shri.
- Armed Forces Gallantry Awards: 70 Armed Forces personnel awarded gallantry medals, including Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, Sena, Nao Sena, and Vayu Sena Medals
- Military Decorations: The President conferred 301 defence decorations, including Param Vishisht Seva Medals, Uttam Yudh Seva Medals, Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, Yudh Seva Medals, Bar to Sena Medal, Sena Medals (Devotion to Duty), Nao Sena Medals, Vayu Sena Medals, Bar to Vishisht Seva Medals, and Vishisht Seva Medals.
- Param Vishisht Seva Medals: Recognize distinguished service of exceptional order.
- Uttam Yudh Seva Medals: Awarded for distinguished service during war or conflict.
- Ati Vishisht Seva Medals: Recognize distinguished service of exceptional order.
- Yudh Seva Medals: Awarded for distinguished service during war or hostilities.
- Bar to Sena Medal (Devotion to Duty): Awarded to recipients of Sena Medal for further acts of devotion.
- Vishisht Seva Medal: High-order service, with a Bar for subsequent awards.
- PTM and TM Medal: The President conferred the President’s Tatrakshak Medal (PTM) and Tatrakshak Medal (TM) for Indian Coast Guard personnel.
- These awards recognise their acts of conspicuous gallantry, exceptional devotion to duty, and distinguished/meritorious service.
- Services Personnel: A total of 982 personnel from Police, Fire Services, Home Guard & Civil Defence (HG&CD), and Correctional Services have been awarded Gallantry and Service Medals.
- Police Gallantry Medals: Announced twice a year, these medals acknowledge bravery and exemplary conduct by police personnel.
- The President’s Medal for Gallantry is awarded for exceptional courage in saving lives or preventing crime, while the Police Medal for Gallantry recognizes acts of bravery during duty.
- President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM): Awarded for special distinguished service records.
- Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM): Given for valuable service characterized by dedication and devotion to duty.
- Police Gallantry Medals: Announced twice a year, these medals acknowledge bravery and exemplary conduct by police personnel.
- Jeevan Raksha Padak Awards: Given to a person for meritorious act of human nature in saving the life of a person
- The awards are given in three categories: Sarvottam, Uttam, and Jeevan Raksha Padak. Persons of all walks of life are eligible for these awards. The award can also be conferred posthumously.
- Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak: For conspicuous courage in saving a life under very dangerous circumstances.
- Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak: For courage and prompt action in saving a life under great danger.
- Jeevan Raksha Padak: For courage and prompt action in saving a life under conditions involving grave bodily injury.
Key Facts About Vande Mataram
- Origin & Composition: Vande Mataram (also pronounced Bande Mataram), composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, was first published in Bangadarshan in 1875 and later included in Anandamath (1882).
- It is set to music by Rabindranath Tagore, it emerged as a powerful symbol of India’s cultural and political identity, embodying unity, sacrifice, and devotion.
- National Status: On 24th January 1950, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, announced that while Jana Gana Mana would be the National Anthem, Vande Mataram, for its key role in the freedom movement, would be honoured equally as the National Song.
- India’s Constitution does not explicitly mention a national song. However, Article 51A(a) asks citizens to respect the Constitution, National Flag and National Anthem.
- Role in Freedom Movement:
- Adoption by Congress: In 1896, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore sang Vande Mataram at the Kolkata session of the Indian National Congress.
- At the Varanasi session of the Indian National Congress (1905), the song 'Vande Mataram' was adopted for all-India occasions.
- Mass Mobilisation & Press: Bande Mataram Sampradaya (1905) formed in North Calcutta to promote devotion to the motherland.
- English daily Bande Mataram launched in 1906 under Bipin Chandra Pal, later joined by Sri Aurobindo. It propagated ideas of Swadeshi, unity, and resistance.
- Anti-Partition & Student Movements: Vande Mataram was first used as a political slogan on 7th August 1905 during student processions at Calcutta Town Hall, becoming the rallying cry of the Swadeshi and anti-partition movement.
- Its mass appeal prompted Lord Curzon to order arrests for singing it.
- Influence on Indian Revolutionaries Abroad:
- In 1907, Madam Bhikaji Cama raised the tricolour flag for the first-time outside India in Stuttgart, Germany. The words Vande Mataram were written on the flag.
- In August 1909, when Madan Lal Dhignra was hanged in England, his last words before he went to the gallows were “Bande Mataram.”
- In October 1912, Gopal Krishna Gokhale was welcomed in Cape Town with a grand procession chanting “Vande Mataram.”
- Adoption by Congress: In 1896, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore sang Vande Mataram at the Kolkata session of the Indian National Congress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is Republic Day celebrated on 26 January?
It marks the enforcement of the Constitution in 1950 and commemorates the Purna Swaraj Declaration of 1930, linking freedom struggle with constitutional governance.
2. What was the theme of the 77th Republic Day (2026)?
The theme was “150 Years of Vande Mataram,” highlighting national unity, freedom, and cultural heritage.
3. What is the significance of Padma Awards announced on Republic Day?
Padma Awards recognise exceptional civilian contributions across fields like arts, public service, science, sports, and social work.
4. What do Gallantry and Service Medals signify?
They honour bravery, devotion to duty, and distinguished service by Armed Forces and civil services personnel.
5. What are Jeevan Raksha Padak Awards?
These awards recognise acts of exceptional courage in saving human lives, and are open to civilians and posthumous recognition.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Prelims
Q. What was the exact constitutional status of India on 26th January 1950? (2021)
(a) A Democratic Republic
(b) A Sovereign Democratic Republic
(c) A Sovereign Secular Democratic Republic
(d) A Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic
Ans: (b)
Mains
Q. Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the ‘Preamble’. Are they defendable in the present circumstances? (2013)
