77 years of the Indian Republic: Awakening the Purpose, Power, and Responsibility of youth

  •   Mon, Jan 26 2026
  •   By Dr R G D'Souza

January 26, 2026

On 26 January 2026, India proudly celebrates its 77th Republic Day—a moment not only of national pride, but of deep reflection. Republic Day is far more than a commemoration of the day our Constitution came into force; it is a reminder that India is an idea continuously shaped by the conscience, courage, and commitment of its people—especially its youth. At a time when India stands at a defining crossroads of history, the responsibility of translating constitutional ideals into everyday action rests strongly on young Indians. As a mentor to youth and an academic leader working closely with students in professional and engineering programmes, I see Republic Day not as a ceremonial milestone, but as a call to purposeful action. 

The Republic Lives Through Its Youth:

India today is one of the youngest nations in the world. This demographic advantage is also a moral responsibility. The Constitution empowers the youth not merely with rights, but with duties—to think critically, act ethically, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.

The 77th Republic Day arrives during the Amrit Kaal, when India is actively pursuing transformational national programmes such as Viksit Bharat@2047, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India, Make in India, Startup India, Skill India, National Education Policy 2020, India AI Mission, Smart Infrastructure, and Green & Clean Energy initiatives. These are not government initiatives alone; they are invitations for youth participation.The question before every young Indian is simple yet profound: How am I contributing to the Republic that gives me freedom, opportunity, and identity? 

Engineering Education with a National Purpose:

Engineering and professional education must go beyond degrees and placements. It must nurture problem solvers, innovators, and nation builders. The youth of today must apply emerging technologies—AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, IoT, biotechnology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing—not merely for commercial success, but for societal impact.From climate change and healthcare access to rural development and digital inclusion, India’s challenges demand solutions rooted in technical excellence guided by human values. Republic Day reminds us that knowledge without ethics is dangerous, and innovation without empathy is incomplete. 

From Awareness to Responsible Citizenship:

The strength of a republic lies in the awareness of its citizens. Youth must:

  • Understand the Constitution of India, its values, and its vision.
  • Respect diversity, promote inclusion, and reject intolerance.
  • Participate in community engagement, volunteering, civic initiatives, NSS/NCC, and social innovation.

A true republic is built when young minds practice integrity in daily life—whether in classrooms, laboratories, start-ups, public spaces, or digital platforms. 

Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Self-Reliance:

India’s future belongs to those who create opportunities, not merely seek them. National platforms today encourage youth to become job creators, innovators, and global problem-solvers. Entrepreneurship must be driven not just by profit, but by purpose—addressing national priorities and improving lives. Republic Day urges youth to embrace courage, resilience, and ethical leadership, remembering that every successful nation was built by young people who dared to imagine differently.  

Living the Republic Every Day:

As the tricolour rises on the 77th Republic Day, the message to India’s youth is simple yet powerful: Do not limit patriotism to slogans or symbols. Live it through action, integrity, and service. Be technically competent, socially conscious, globally competitive, and deeply rooted in Indian values. Let your careers strengthen the nation. Let your character uphold the Constitution. Let your innovation make India respected and relevant in the world. If India is to emerge as a developed, inclusive, and ethical global leader by 2047, it will be because the youth of today chose responsibility over comfort, contribution over convenience, and purpose over passivity. The Republic is not inherited—it is built, every day, by you.

 

Jai Hind. Happy 77th Republic Day

 

 
By Dr R G D'Souza
Dr R G D'Souza is the dean-faculty of Engineering &Technology, Yenepoya deemed to be university.
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Title: 77 years of the Indian Republic: Awakening the Purpose, Power, and Responsibility of youth



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