Dr Ankush Mahajan
As India celebrates its 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025, the nation finds itself reflecting on the profound legacy of its democratic ideals, embodied in the Constitution adopted on this day in 1950. The theme for this year, Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas (Golden India – Heritage and Development), aptly captures the juxtaposition of India’s rich cultural heritage with its ambitious aspirations for progress. However, amid the patriotic fervor and grand celebrations, it is imperative to examine the socio-political, economic, and cultural challenges that threaten to undermine the foundational values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution.
A Historical Reflection
The journey of Republic Day began when India transitioned from being a dominion under British rule to a sovereign republic. This transformation was marked by the adoption of the Indian Constitution, drafted under the stewardship of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The momentous occasion of January 26, 1950, saw the unfurling of the national flag by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, and a 21-gun salute to commemorate the birth of the Republic. It was a day of promise and hope, symbolizing the dreams of a nation united in diversity.
The Political Reality
The political discourse in India, however, tells a different story. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi champions initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, critics argue that these policies often fall short of addressing the grassroots realities. “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas” (Together, for everyone’s growth, with everyone’s trust), Modi often reiterates, but his critics, including Rahul Gandhi, counter with statements like, “India is being governed by a government of crony capitalism, where the voice of the common man is ignored.”
Rahul Gandhi has also accused the BJP of being disconnected from ground realities, stating, “Democracy in India is being weakened by institutions that are controlled and influenced by the ruling party.” The political rivalry between the BJP and Congress has often turned fierce, with accusations and counter-accusations dominating headlines. While both parties claim to work for the people’s welfare, the ground reality reveals a disconnection from the struggles of ordinary citizens. India’s farmers, for instance, continue to face immense challenges, and the promises made to them often remain unfulfilled.
The Farmers’ Agitation
India, often referred to as the “land of agriculture,” finds itself in a paradoxical situation where the very food providers struggle for survival. Despite the repeal of controversial farm laws in 2021 after prolonged protests, farmers still grapple with inadequate Minimum Support Prices (MSP), rising input costs, and mounting debt. Protests and rallies by farmers, including roadblocks on national highways, have become a recurring feature, disrupting daily life and exposing the inefficiencies in the system. Farmers demand policies that ensure fair pricing, reduce exploitation by middlemen, and provide timely subsidies.
The situation is dire as many small and marginal farmers are being pushed out of agriculture due to unsustainable income. India’s inability to address the demands of its food providers has highlighted the need for a holistic approach to agricultural reform. The increasing number of farmer suicides and the growing rural-urban migration due to lack of opportunities are stark reminders of the neglect faced by this crucial sector. Comprehensive and empathetic policymaking is the need of the hour to restore dignity and hope among the farming community.
Economic Challenges: Rupee vs Dollar
India’s economic stability is another area of concern. The Indian rupee has seen a steady decline against the US dollar, with the current exchange rate hovering around 85 INR per dollar. This depreciation not only impacts imports but also exacerbates inflation, making essential commodities unaffordable for many citizens. While the government emphasizes economic growth, the benefits often fail to trickle down to the lower strata of society, widening the gap between the rich and the poor.
The Rise in Crime
Adding to these woes is the alarming rise in crime across the nation. Reports of gender-based violence, cybercrimes, and organized crime have surged in recent years, raising questions about the efficacy of law enforcement and judicial systems. The increasing crime rate undermines the sense of security and unity that Republic Day aims to celebrate.
In the digital era, while initiatives like Digital India have aimed to promote connectivity and e-governance, they have also given rise to a surge in digital crimes. Cyber frauds, including fake calls from purported government departments such as income tax notices, digital arrest warrants, and fraudulent credit card schemes, have become widespread. The misuse of AI technologies has further enabled criminals to create convincing scams, leaving countless victims in financial distress. Strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure and educating the public about these threats is essential to prevent such crimes.
Brain Drain: A Silent Crisis
Another critical issue is the mass exodus of skilled professionals and students seeking better opportunities abroad. This brain drain not only deprives India of its brightest minds but also reflects the lack of adequate opportunities and infrastructure within the country. Rising unemployment, currently estimated to be at its highest in decades, has become a significant contributor to this trend. Many highly educated individuals, including engineers, doctors, and researchers, are finding it difficult to secure jobs that match their qualifications, forcing them to seek employment in other countries.
The growing dissatisfaction among the youth, coupled with underemployment and stagnant wages, paints a grim picture of India’s talent retention policies. Addressing this issue requires creating a robust ecosystem of job opportunities, fostering innovation, and investing in research and development to ensure that India’s best minds contribute to the nation’s progress rather than seeking greener pastures abroad.
Other Challenges
India also faces other monumental challenges:
Healthcare and Education: While progress has been made in these sectors, significant disparities persist, particularly in rural areas where access to quality healthcare and education remains limited.
Environmental Degradation: Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to deforestation, pollution, and water scarcity, threatening the nation’s ecological balance.
Social Inequality: Despite constitutional guarantees, caste-based discrimination, gender inequality, and communal tensions continue to hinder social harmony.
The Way Forward
To truly honor the spirit of Republic Day, India must go beyond symbolic celebrations and address these pressing issues with urgency and sincerity. This includes:
Strengthening Democratic Values: Ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in governance.
Empowering Farmers: Implementing long-term policies to support sustainable agriculture.
Economic Reforms: Promoting equitable growth that benefits all sections of society.
Enhancing Security: Strengthening law enforcement to ensure safety and justice for all citizens.
Investing in Talent: Creating opportunities and infrastructure to retain skilled professionals and empower the youth.
Conclusion
Republic Day 2025 is a moment of celebration, but it is also an occasion for introspection. The theme, Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas, reminds us of the need to strike a balance between preserving our cultural heritage and driving meaningful progress. As we celebrate 76 years of being a republic, let us pledge to uphold the values enshrined in our Constitution and work collectively to build a more just, inclusive, and prosperous India. Only then can we truly realize the vision of a Golden India.
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