Founding Ideals

Context:

• The first speech by the honourable President Draupadi Murmu reiterated the founding ideals of the Republic on the eve of the 74th anniversary of the adoption of its Constitution.

Ideals of Democracy:

• Transcended by ancient civilisation: The values of fraternity and democracy that its founding leaders etched into the genetic makeup of the modern nation were derived from the learnings of an ancient civilisation.
• For empowerment of weaker section: The Republican fabric of Indian Constitution continuing journey of democracy, pluralism and empowerment of the weaker sections.
• Rediscovering own ideals: The adoption of a republic framework for Indian democracy, was not after the British legacy but the revival of our own ancient culture followed for ages.

Republic still in formation:

• Gaining global order: India’s successes in various fields, particularly the economy. While noting India’s emergence as an influential leader in global affairs, she underscored the principles of Sarvodaya and Atmanirbhar Bharat, uplift of all, and self-reliance which are guiding the government as they have the earlier ones. 
• Hurdles in the path: Challenges to the ideals of the Constitution and the national movement arose in the form of political authoritarianism, sectarian extremism, and separatism making India’s movement slow, but recoverable.
• Conserve constitutional sanctity: The Constitution is also part of the democracy it establishes; adherence to its basic principles is what unifies the people of India and that must be conserved.