With India celebrating its 76th Republic Day, it is time to appreciate how the youth of the country is embracing the values of the constitution. On January 26, 1950, India celebrated its first Republic Day as the Indian constitution replaced the British Raj’s Government of India Act 1935. Over the years, the country has changed but its core values have remained the same. Even today, across the country, students are showcasing their interpretations of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity through creative and meaningful activities such as debates, art competitions, and community-driven projects among other things.

Embracing freedom

In schools and colleges, debates have become a powerful medium for students to delve into constitutional principles. Topics such as “The Relevance of Fundamental Rights in Today’s World” and “Balancing Liberty and Security in Modern India” have spurred passionate discussions. Tristan D’Souza, Class IX, Jasudben ML School, shares, “Participating in debating topics on current social issues such as gender equality, climate change, or social justice challenges us to think critically and engage in meaningful dialogue. It helps to understand those values, respect different viewpoints, and reinforce the constitutional values of liberty—freedom of speech and expression. These activities help us realize that the Constitution shapes the way we interact with each other and the world. It is not just a historical document but a living guide to the people for the people and by the people.”

Similarly, Aashna Trivedi, a journalism student, believes that this is the only way to keep the constitutional principles alive. “Media is one of the four pillars of democracy and my aim to become a journalist is driven by my passion for speaking up for the nation, and for the rights of citizens. Not to add, this resonates with the principles of constitution as well.”

It is not just debates, but also art competitions where students feel that they use their freedom of expression. In fact, art competitions centred on the theme of the Constitution have provided students with a canvas to express their vision of India. Vibrant murals depicting the Preamble, symbolic representations of justice and equality, and poignant illustrations of unity in diversity have emerged from classrooms and community centres. Mridula Kaplish, an art enthusiast from Delhi, says, “I mean I never thought of art this way. I just paint to express myself. However, when you asked this question then it feels like yes I am using one of the strongest principles of the Constitution. This Republic Day, I am planning to just express my thoughts on paper with colours but nothing specific to India. This is my way of using my freedom of expression.”

Kashvi Kapur, a Grade 10 student from Delhi believes that it is not just the debates and art competitions but in general, whenever she raises her voice against the wrong and stands up for the right at school, she follows the principles of the constitution.

Living the Constitution

Beyond debates and art, students are engaging in hands-on projects to bring the Constitution’s values to life in their communities. Vivaan Daga, a 12th-grade student from TSRS Moulsari, embodies this ethos with his unique initiative, CricMaths. “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself,” Vivaan quotes John Dewey, highlighting his belief that education is a fundamental human right. By using cricket, India’s most loved sport, to teach mathematical concepts, Vivaan strives to make learning more accessible and immersive, transforming it into a fun, engaging process.

Suneelesh Batabyal, a third-year undergraduate student majoring in Data Science and Economics at FLAME University, shares how his education has shaped his understanding of the Constitution. “I have come to realize that the values enshrined in the Constitution are not merely theoretical concepts but a guiding framework that influences how we navigate our daily lives. Engaging in activities such as collaborative projects has encouraged me to critically examine these constitutional values and their relevance in contemporary life. These opportunities have nurtured my ability to question assumptions and seek clarity in an increasingly complex world. They have also helped me appreciate the importance of dialogue, conflict resolution, and collective decision-making, skills that embody the spirit of fraternity and mutual respect upheld by the Constitution.”

Prathu Vijayvargiya, a third-year B.Tech student at SRM University in Hyderabad, also emphasizes the influence of constitutional values. “I think the Constitution shapes how the citizens of a country think or act. Even in my life, the values of the Constitution such as integrity, unity, and liberty, which I learned through platforms such as MUNs and debates, have helped me in taking part in important discussions and foster empathy for others.”

Renewed commitment

These stories of debates, artistic expressions, and impactful projects highlight the role students play in interpreting and promoting the Constitution’s vision. As D’Souza puts it, “It reminds us that the Constitution’s promise of justice is not just a goal for governments but also a responsibility for every citizen, including young students like us.”

This Republic Day, as we unfurl the tricolour and honour our Constitution, let us celebrate the creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication of young Indians. They are not only the inheritors of our democratic legacy but also the torchbearers who will carry forward the values that define our nation. Their efforts serve as a reminder that the strength of a democracy lies not only in its institutions but also in the engagement of its citizens, especially its youth.

Quick look at the core values of the Indian Constitution:

• Justice: Social, economic, and political justice for all citizens.
• Equality: Equal opportunity and protection under the law, without discrimination.
• Liberty: Freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship.
• Fraternity: Promoting a sense of brotherhood and unity, ensuring the dignity of the individual.
• Sovereignty: The supreme power of the people to make decisions independently.
• Secularism: Equal respect and freedom for all religions.
• Integrity: Upholding the unity and integrity of the nation.

In conversation with MSN.com: Suneelesh Batabyal, Undergraduate Student, FLAME University.