Relive India's First Republic Day: A Glimpse into History
Explore India's inaugural Republic Day through The Hindu's curated archival edition.
Photo by Big G Media
Key Facts
Event: First Republic Day
Date: January 26, 1950
Source: The Hindu archives
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Constitution, historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
GS Paper I: Modern Indian History - Significant events, personalities, issues.
Potential questions: Constitutional history, evolution of Republic Day celebrations, significance of January 26.
Visual Insights
Journey to Republic Day
Key events leading to the adoption of the Constitution and the first Republic Day celebration.
The journey to Republic Day involved decades of struggle for independence and self-governance, culminating in the adoption of the Constitution.
- 1929Lahore Session of INC: Purna Swaraj resolution passed
- 1930January 26 observed as Purna Swaraj Day
- 1935Government of India Act, 1935 passed
- 1946Constituent Assembly formed
- 1947India gains Independence
- 1949Constitution adopted by Constituent Assembly (November 26)
- 1950Constitution comes into effect; India becomes a Republic (January 26)
- 202677th Republic Day celebrated
More Information
Background
The idea of a Republic Day in India emerged from the independence movement and the desire for complete self-governance. The Indian National Congress, on December 19, 1929, passed the 'Purna Swaraj' resolution, declaring complete independence as its goal. January 26, 1930, was then celebrated as Independence Day.
This historical context made January 26 a symbolic date for the adoption of the Constitution in 1950. The Constitution itself was the culmination of years of debate and drafting, beginning with the setting up of the Constituent Assembly in 1946. Key figures like Dr.
B.R. Ambedkar, Chairman of the Drafting Committee, played a crucial role in shaping the document. The Constitution drew inspiration from various sources, including the Government of India Act 1935, and the constitutions of other democratic nations.
Latest Developments
In recent years, Republic Day celebrations have increasingly focused on showcasing India's military strength, cultural diversity, and technological advancements. The parade on Rajpath (now Kartavya Path) has become a major attraction, featuring tableaux from different states and government departments. There's been a greater emphasis on inclusivity, with increased representation of women and marginalized communities in the parade.
The government has also been actively promoting the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative to foster greater understanding and unity among states. Furthermore, discussions around constitutional values and civic duties have gained prominence, particularly in the context of contemporary social and political challenges. The use of technology, such as drone shows and digital displays, has also become a regular feature of the celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the significance of January 26th in the context of India's Republic Day?
January 26th marks the day the Indian Constitution came into effect in 1950, establishing India as a republic. It is also significant because January 26, 1930, was celebrated as Independence Day following the 'Purna Swaraj' resolution.
2. For the UPSC Prelims, what key facts should I remember about India's first Republic Day?
Remember that the first Republic Day was on January 26, 1950. The Hindu newspaper has reproduced its archival edition from that day.
3. How have Republic Day celebrations evolved in recent years, as highlighted in the provided context?
Recent Republic Day celebrations increasingly showcase India's military strength, cultural diversity, and technological advancements. The parade on Kartavya Path features tableaux from different states, with greater emphasis on inclusivity and representation of women and marginalized communities.
4. What was the 'Purna Swaraj' resolution, and how does it relate to Republic Day?
The 'Purna Swaraj' resolution, passed by the Indian National Congress in 1929, declared complete independence as its goal. January 26, 1930, was then celebrated as Independence Day. This made January 26 a symbolic date for adopting the Constitution and celebrating Republic Day.
5. How might the historical context of Republic Day be relevant in the UPSC Personality Test (Interview)?
You might be asked about the significance of choosing January 26th as Republic Day, linking it to the 'Purna Swaraj' resolution and the early celebrations of Independence Day. Understanding this historical context demonstrates your awareness of India's freedom struggle and constitutional development.
6. What are some potential essay topics for UPSC Mains related to Republic Day and the Constitution?
Possible essay topics include: 'The Evolution of Indian Republic', 'The Constitution as a Living Document', or 'Balancing Tradition and Modernity in the Indian Republic'.
7. Why is The Hindu's reproduction of its January 26, 1950, edition significant?
It offers a unique glimpse into the atmosphere and public sentiment surrounding the birth of the Indian Republic. It provides primary source material for understanding the context of the Constitution's adoption.
8. What is the constitutional basis for celebrating Republic Day?
Republic Day celebrates the adoption of the Constitution of India, which establishes the framework for governance and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. While there isn't a specific article mandating the celebration, it commemorates the day the Constitution came into effect.
9. How does the focus on military strength and cultural diversity during Republic Day celebrations impact common citizens?
It fosters a sense of national pride and unity. The display of military strength can instill confidence, while the cultural performances showcase the country's rich heritage. However, some may argue about the cost and whether the focus should be more on social progress.
10. What are the key differences between Independence Day and Republic Day in India?
Independence Day, celebrated on August 15th, commemorates India's freedom from British rule. Republic Day, on January 26th, celebrates the adoption of the Indian Constitution and the establishment of India as a republic.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the historical context of choosing January 26th as Republic Day? 1. It commemorates the day the Indian National Congress adopted the 'Quit India' resolution. 2. It marks the anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, symbolizing the struggle for freedom. 3. It recalls the day the 'Purna Swaraj' declaration was made in 1930. 4. It coincides with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation.
- A.Only 1
- B.Only 2
- C.Only 3
- D.Only 4
Show Answer
Answer: C
The correct answer is C) Only 3. January 26th was chosen as Republic Day to commemorate the 'Purna Swaraj' declaration made by the Indian National Congress on January 26, 1930, signifying the commitment to complete independence. The 'Quit India' resolution was adopted in 1942, the Jallianwala Bagh massacre occurred on April 13, 1919, and Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary is on October 2nd. Therefore, options 1, 2, and 4 are incorrect.
2. Consider the following statements regarding the Constituent Assembly of India: 1. The Constituent Assembly was formed based on the recommendations of the Cabinet Mission Plan. 2. Jawaharlal Nehru served as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution. 3. The Constitution was adopted on January 26, 1949, marking the day of complete independence. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.Only 1
- B.Only 2
- C.1 and 3
- D.2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
The correct answer is A) Only 1. The Constituent Assembly was indeed formed based on the recommendations of the Cabinet Mission Plan. However, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee, not Jawaharlal Nehru. The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, not January 26, 1949, and it was enforced on January 26, 1950.
3. Which of the following events occurred on January 26, 1950? 1. India declared its complete independence from British rule. 2. The Indian Constitution came into effect. 3. The first general elections were held in India. 4. The Reserve Bank of India was established.
- A.Only 1
- B.Only 2
- C.1 and 3
- D.2 and 4
Show Answer
Answer: B
The correct answer is B) Only 2. The Indian Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking India's transition to a republic. India had already gained independence on August 15, 1947. The first general elections were held in 1951-52, and the Reserve Bank of India was established on April 1, 1935.