on constitution day, pm modi linked fundamental duties (article 51a) to indian history, celebrating 150 years of vande mataram and the 350th martyrdom of guru teg bahadur ji, urging schools to honor new 18-year-old voters.
The constitution and our duties: a history lesson from modi
it’s constitution day, a huge day for india, and pm modi is making a big push: focus on your Fundamental duties. it’s not just about what the state gives you—it’s about what you give back, or nothing.
he’s linking it all back to history. that happened. he noted two major, major anniversaries this year that “remind us of the primacy of our duties.”
Vande mataram: it’s the 150th anniversary of that powerful national song. he says the words “resonate with the collective resolve of indians.”
Guru teg bahadur ji: it’s the 350th martyrdom anniversary. his life and sacrifice are meant to “illuminate us with courage, compassion and strength.”
the thing is, he’s saying these personalities and milestones are what the constitution formalizes in article 51a—the dedicated chapter on fundamental duties. that’s the core message.
The 2049 deadline: duties now, rights later
modi is looking way ahead. to the future.
by 2049, india will mark 100 years since the constitution was adopted. that’s the deadline. he says, the policies we frame and the decisions we take today are going to “shape the lives of generations to come.” it’s a big responsibility.
he is urging everyone to always place duties towards the nation foremost in their minds. that sense of responsibility is the foundation of a strong nation, he argues
Making voting a zabardast celebration
he also touched on the right to vote. you need to strengthen democracy by exercising that right, yaar.
and here’s the kicker: he suggested that schools and colleges should celebrate constitution day by honoring first-time voters turning 18. that happened. he wants to inspire the youth with a sense of pride and responsibility.
if you make it a celebration, he believes, they will stay committed to the values of democracy throughout their lives. it’s an ongoing push to get the youth invested in nation-building.
