28 Jan 2015

Indian nationals have been urged to be patriotic, uplift their values and preserve them with utmost care and vigilance. 

The newly appointed High Commissioner of India, Mrs Hemalata Bhagirath said the success of a society was measured by both survival and strengthening of its values, institutions and instruments of governance.

Speaking at the flag hoisting ceremony to mark the 66th Republic Day of India at the embassy premises in Gaborone, Mrs Bhagirath said the day was a national holiday that fell on January 26 every year, marking India’s adoption of a Republic constitution on January 26, 1950, after gaining of independence from British rule in 1947. 

Mrs Bhagirath who was speaking on behalf of India’s President Shri Pranab Mukherjee said, “The Indian Constitution is the holy book of democracy.” 

She said, “the constitution is a loadstar for the socio-economic transformation of an India whose civilisation has celebrated pluralism, advocated tolerance and promoted goodwill between diverse communities. 

The constitutional essence and obligations lay in four principles of democracy, freedom of faith, gender equality and an economic upsurge for those trapped in the curse of dire poverty.” 

High Commissioner Bhagirath also said they owed their freedom to the great warriors of nationalism and saluted the unsung heroes and martyrs who have died securing the liberation of mother India.

She said the tri-colour flag was unfurled and hoisted up to celebrate the largest democracy in the world. As it fluttered in the air it received loud cheers and flower showers from Indian nationals who sang along to patriotic songs.

Back home, festivities take place on a grand scale to showcase India’s military might and cultural diversity in the capital Delhi, she said.

This year, she noted the chief guest was US President Barack Obama who attended the Republic Day Parade that featured contingents and displays from the army, navy, air force and also included colourful floats from each of India’s states. ENDS