Despite a challenging situation in the wake of recent snowfall, the security forces on Monday extended the ongoing combing operation in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district following a fresh gunfight the previous night, officials said. The encounter took place in the snow-bound Janseer-Kandiwar forest area of Chatroo around 10.20 pm on Sunday after one of the security search parties comprising of Army and police observed the movement of terrorists, they said. The officials said the gunfight between the two sides continued for quite some time but the terrorists, believed to be two or three, managed their escape.This was the third encounter in the Chatroo belt of the hilly district over the past week, amid a massive operation for holed up terrorists linked to the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit. On January 18, a fierce gunbattle in Sonnar village near Mandral-Singhpora left a paratrooper dead and seven other personnel injured. Although the terrorists managed to escape, utilising thick vegetation and the challenging terrain, they were intercepted a few kilometres away from the site of the first encounter on January 22. However, the success again eluded the forces but they continued with their operation even as the area witnessed over two feet of snowfall on Friday. The officials said Army helicopters were seen hovering over the scene of the fresh encounter and adjoining areas to keep surveillance as various search parties were fanned out in different directions to track down and neutralise the terrorists. The area of operation was expanded to new areas along the Kishtwar-Sinthan road and the army has also deployed unmanned aerial vehicles and drones besides the sniffer dogs unit, they said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 03:43 PM IST | Jammu | PTIDirector of the Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG) Suhas Chakma, while in conversation with Tarique Zia, cautioned that the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) region in Bangladesh could face serious unrest if recent remarks by Bangladesh National Party (BNP) President Tarique Zia on ending quota provisions for hill tribes are implemented. In a formal communication addressed to Zia, RRAG Director Suhas Chakma expressed concern over statements made by the BNP leader during an interaction at Chittagong University, where Zia reportedly advocated for “equal rights” (sama adhikar) for all citizens and declared that there would be no special quota for indigenous communities in Chittagong Hill Tracts. Zia also stated that hill tribes should be recognised solely as Bangladeshis and not as “indigenous peoples”. The director of the Rights and Risks Analysis Group, Chakma, further argued that the principle of equal rights is not absolute and must account for the vulnerabilities of marginalised communities. Suhar Chakma further noted that both the Constitution of Bangladesh and international human rights law provide for affirmative action and positive discrimination to ensure substantive equality. He cited Article 29(3) of the Bangladesh Constitution, which allows reservations in public employment for backward groups, and Article 1(4) of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, ratified by Bangladesh, which permits special measures for disadvantaged communities. Referring to domestic legislation, Chakma also pointed out that the Income Tax Act, 2023, published in the official gazette on October 16, 2025 which recognises the 'Adivasis' of the Chittagong Hill Tracts as “indigenous hillmen”. RPAG director on Bangladeshi Indigenous communities Highlighting demographic realities, Suhas also said that indigenous communities form a small fraction of Bangladesh’s population and remain socially and economically disadvantaged. He warned that the removal of quotas and special legal protections could further marginalise these communities. The RPAG chairman further stated, “If indigenous peoples are denied access to opportunities due to the absence of reservation and their identities are eroded through the repeal of protective laws, the Chittagong Hill Tracts could witness rebellion as a last resort.” The warning comes ahead of Bangladesh’s national elections scheduled for February 12, 2026, amid heightened political discourse around governance, rights, and constitutional equality.
26 January,2026 03:41 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentRepublic Day is an occasion to reaffirm India's commitment to protecting and promoting its national flag and constitutional values as well as the country's ancient and eternal spiritual essence, RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale said on Monday. After hoisting the national flag at the RSS office here, he also exhorted people to pledge to uphold the eternal spiritual values of India in their lives, fulfil their civic duties and abide by national duty. The RSS second-in-command also appealed to the people to cultivate love and compassion for society as well as affection and empathy for the vulnerable people, and dedicate themselves to serving them in order to protect the Republic of India. "We Indians are extremely happy because we are living proudly as citizens of our glorious and vibrant republic. This is a very sacred day for us," Hosabale said, addressing an event organised to celebrate the Republic Day at Keshav Kunj here. "Today is the day to reaffirm our commitment to continuously protect and promote India's national flag, constitutional values, and the country's ancient and eternal spiritual essence," he added. Hosabale said that protecting the Constitution and the Tricolour is a national duty because they are laid on the foundation of truth and righteousness. "Today, we must resolve to fulfil our national duty by upholding India's timeless spiritual ideals in our lives. Protecting our Constitution, safeguarding India's unity, and securing India's borders are our paramount national duties," he added. Hosabale said that the Indian Army, security forces, police and all types of social and religious institutions run by the people have kept the Republic of India safe and secure. They are also preserving and protecting the country's ancient heritage with "unwavering dedication to duty", he said. "Therefore, to protect the Republic of India, we must constantly strive, in every moment and in every aspect of our lives, to cultivate love and compassion for society, affection and empathy for our vulnerable people, and to serve them and contribute to the development of life in every region and every dimension of India. "To protect the Republic of India, we must cultivate love and compassion for society, affection and empathy for our vulnerable people, and dedicate ourselves to serving them. We must strive every moment, in every aspect of life, to develop every region and every dimension of India," he said. He added that the volunteers of the RSS have been practising this 'sadhna' for the past 100 years defending the republic, serving Indian society and moving forward by remembering and drawing inspiration from Bharat's 'Rashtra Dharma'. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, Hosabale lauded the government for playing 'Vande Mataram' during the Republic Day celebrations, saying, "It is our national song. Naturally, those who led India's freedom movement drew inspiration from Vande Mataram and moved forward." "Therefore, every line, every word of Vande Mataram is an inspiration for every generation of Indians to work for the country. That is why the government's decision to remind everyone of this during such a special parade is commendable," he said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 03:17 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIOn the occasion of Republic Day, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday unfurled the Tricolour at his residence and said that the day is an opportunity to make firm resolutions to make the country a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by the time India completes 100 years of Independence. Speaking to reporters, Om Birla said, “The day of January 26 is a matter of pride for all countrymen. On the occasion of Republic Day, I extend my best wishes and congratulations to the people of the nation.” Highlighting the importance of the Constitution, the Lok Sabha Speaker said, “Republic Day is a day to take resolutions to follow the rules and regulations of the Indian Constitution and to move the country forward. Seventy-seven years ago, the Constitution was framed, and today it stands as one of the longest written Constitutions in the world. It is a living guide for the people of the country.” He further added, “This is a day to resolve that when the country completes 100 years of Independence, India should emerge as a ‘Viksit Bharat’. We, the people of the country, will work collectively to make this dream a reality. With innovation, determination and hard work, we will fulfil this goal.” Republic Day is celebrated every year on January 26 to commemorate the establishment of the Indian Constitution, which is regarded as the supreme law of the land and must be followed by all citizens. Although India gained Independence on August 15, 1947, the nation did not have its own Constitution immediately after freedom. In the absence of a Constitution, laws were governed by the common law system and a modified version of the British-era Government of India Act, 1935. To address this, a Drafting Committee was formed approximately two weeks after Independence, with Dr B.R. Ambedkar appointed as its Chairman. After extensive deliberations, the Constitution of India was completed and adopted on November 26, 1949, a day that is now observed as Constitution Day. The Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, and this date was designated as Republic Day to mark the formal enforcement of the Constitution. While India became a free nation on August 15, 1947, it was with the adoption of the Constitution on January 26, 1950, that the country formally declared itself a sovereign, democratic and republican state, governed by constitutional values and the rule of law. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 02:31 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSIndian Air Force helicopters flying with the flag of Operation Sindoor marked a striking moment during the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path on Monday, paying tribute to India’s decisive military action last year against high-value terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Tri-Services tableau of the Indian Defence Forces, themed ‘Operation Sindoor: Victory Through Jointness’, was also showcased on the occasion. The tableau symbolised the collective strength, unity and seamless integration of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force in safeguarding the nation’s security. Adding to the display, the Integrated Operational Centre (IOC) highlighted the success of Operation Sindoor, underlining the coordinated and synchronised efforts of the Indian armed forces during the mission. As depicted through the glass-enclosed Integrated Operational Centre, the operation was effectively planned, guided and monitored by the national and military leadership. Strong inter-service coordination and active support from the local population were identified as crucial factors behind the success of the operation. A fusion of ‘VIRASAT, VIVIDHTA AUR VIKAS’ was projected as a defining feature of Operation Sindoor. While the BRAHMOS missile system delivered decisive strikes on enemy targets, the Akash missile systems and the S-400 air defence network provided a robust protective shield for civilian populations under the concept of the ‘SUDARSHAN CHAKRA’. Under the Combat Support Elements segment of the tableau, Divyastra was displayed alongside Shaktibaan. Mounted on High Mobility Vehicles (HMV 6x6), these platforms reflected the Indian Army’s growing emphasis on indigenisation and technological modernisation. India’s next-generation unmanned warhead capability was showcased through SHAKTIBAAN and DIVYASTRA systems, mounted on specialised HMV 6x6 platforms. Built around the integrated concept of Surveillance and Targeting, these systems represent a significant leap in the Army’s transition towards technology-driven and precision-based warfare. Shaktibaan and Divyastra are equipped with swarm drones, tethered drone systems and the indigenously developed hybrid UAV ZOLT, which plays a key role in artillery fire direction. According to the Ministry of Defence, these platforms enable the deployment of swarm drones, long-range drones for precision strike missions, and loitering munitions for effective battlefield engagement. The Shaktibaan vehicle was commanded by Lieutenant Raman Mishra of the 161 Medium Regiment, while the Divyastra vehicle was commanded by Subedar Kiran Medar from the same regiment, underscoring the operational readiness and professionalism of the Indian Army personnel involved. More than 100 terrorists were neutralised during the Operation Sindoor -- military action carried out in May 2025, launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent people. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 02:30 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSPrime Minister Narendra Modi yet again broke the protocol and continued his Republic Day tradition by walking down the Kartavya Path after the conclusion of the 77th Republic Day celebrations. He walked quite a distance and greeted enthusiastic attendees seated in enclosures. The people erupted into cheers and clapped as he passed by. With tricolour in hands, chanting 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', the attendees greeted the Prime Minister with sparkling eyes, seeing the Prime Minister with overwhelming patriotism. Children climbed on chairs to catch a glimpse of PM Modi with smiling faces. He then boarded his car and waved to the excited people who were heard shouting 'Modi-Modi' slogans as he moved ahead down the Kartavya Path. Wearing a red-colored tie-and-dye traditional turban with golden peacock feathers motifs, PM Modi also continued his tradition of making the headgear a hallmark of his Republic Day celebrations. PM Modi also crossed over to the other side of the Kartavya Path, where the excited crowd greeted him and captured the moment with photographs. This is not the first time the Prime Minister has broken the protocol. He has been doing it since 2015. President Droupadi Murmu presided over the celebrations by unfurling the national flag and led the nation in commemorating the historic day. The National Flag was unfurled amidst the playing of the National Anthem, followed by a thunderous 21-gun salute performed using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also witnessed the historic celebrations as the Chief Guests for the Republic Day. Meanwhile, Operation Sindoor took the centre stage at the parade with a powerful show of joint military might. Indian Air Force helicopters flying with the flag of Operation Sindoor marked a striking moment during the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path on Monday, paying tribute to India’s decisive military action last year against high-value terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Tri-Services tableau of the Indian Defence Forces, themed ‘Operation Sindoor: Victory Through Jointness', was also showcased on the occasion. The tableau symbolised the collective strength, unity and seamless integration of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force in safeguarding the nation’s security. Adding to the display, the Integrated Operational Centre (IOC) highlighted the success of Operation Sindoor, underlining the coordinated and synchronised efforts of the Indian armed forces during the mission. As depicted through the glass-enclosed Integrated Operational Centre, the operation was effectively planned, guided and monitored by the national and military leadership. Strong inter-service coordination and active support from the local population were identified as crucial factors behind the success of the operation. A fusion of 'VIRASAT, VIVIDHTA AUR VIKAS' was projected as a defining feature of Operation Sindoor. While the BRAHMOS missile system delivered decisive strikes on enemy targets, the Akash missile systems and the S-400 air defence network provided a robust protective shield for civilian populations under the concept of the 'SUDARSHAN CHAKRA'. Under the Combat Support Elements segment of the tableau, Divyastra was displayed alongside Shaktibaan. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 02:29 PM IST | New Delhi [India] | IANSThe National Salute, popularly known as the 21-gun salute or ‘Ekees Topon ki Salami’, remains one of the most revered and symbolic rituals of India’s Republic Day celebrations. Rendered in honour of the President of India — the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces — the salute represents the highest form of military respect and, by extension, pays tribute to the sovereign Republic. At its core, the National Salute symbolises the authority of the Constitution and the supremacy of the people in a democratic republic. Unlike monarchies or colonial regimes, the President embodies the collective will of citizens, making the salute a reaffirmation of democratic equality rather than individual power. It also reflects peaceful intent, unity and the armed forces’ unwavering commitment to uphold the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. The ceremonial firing of 21 blank rounds is synchronised precisely with the playing of the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, which lasts approximately 52 seconds. The thunderous yet measured booms are not a display of military aggression but a ceremonial expression of respect and pride. Each round serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to secure India’s freedom and the resolve required to protect it. Republic Day 2026: History and evolution of the National Salute The origins of the 21-gun salute can be traced back to 17th-century European naval traditions, when warships entering foreign ports fired empty cannons to signal peaceful intentions. Over time, 21 emerged as the international standard for honouring heads of state and high dignitaries. In colonial India, the British adapted the practice to rank princes, officials and viceroys, often reserving higher gun counts, such as 31, for the highest authorities. After Independence, the tradition was retained but redefined. On January 26, 1950, when the Constitution came into force and Dr. Rajendra Prasad assumed office as the first President, early ceremonies are believed, in some accounts, to have included a 31-gun salute. The practice was subsequently standardised to 21 guns to align with global republican norms, emphasise equality and move away from colonial hierarchies. On Republic Day, the salute is fired immediately after the President unfurls the national flag at Kartavya Path. Delivered using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns with blank cartridges, it sets the tone for the parade, blending military precision with national pride while underscoring India’s journey from colonial rule to a sovereign, democratic republic.
26 January,2026 12:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPresident Droupadi Murmu on Monday arrived arrived at at the Kartavya Path in a ceremonial buggy, escorted by the President's Bodyguard (Rashtrapati ke Angrakshak) for the 77th Republic Day celebrations. She was accompanied by President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council, Antonio Luis Santos da Costa, who are the chief guests at this year's Republic Day celebrations. President Droupadi Murmu stepped out of the Rashtrapati Bhavan with President of the European Council, Antonio Luis Santos da Costa and President of the European Commission, Ursula Von Der Leyen. She arrived at the saluting base where she and the two foreign dignitaries were greeted by PM Narendra Modi The President's Bodyguard regiment, mounted on bay and dark bay horses, is the senior-most in the Indian Army and the only one authorised to carry two standards, presented by the President on November 16, 2023. The motto and war cry of the regiment is 'BHARAT MATA KI JAI'. Riding alongside (right) the President's Buggy were Colonel Amit Berwal, Commandant of the President's Bodyguard, on his charger Meghdoot, and Lieutenant Colonel Angad Singh Thind, Second-in-Command, riding Sultan (left). The buggy is being led by Naib Risaldar Jitender, mounted on Longstride. The President's Bodyguard is an Airborne Cavalry Regiment with a history of operational service. Since Independence, it has participated in Chushul (1962), Gadra Road (1965), Operation PAWAN in Sri Lanka (1988), and Operation VIJAY (1999). Its troops have served with United Nations missions, and, for the past 32 years, an annual detachment has been deployed at the Siachen Glacier. The regiment also serves with the Rashtriya Rifles and mechanised formations in high-altitude areas. The ceremonial escort is organised into two divisions around the President's Buggy, with the Nishaan Toli carrying the two Standards of the regiment. The National Flag, the President's Standard, and the Regimental Standard were all carried by designated officers and risaldars. The front division is commanded by Risaldar Major Niranjan Ohlyan, astride Vardaan. Immediately behind the President's Buggy are the Trumpeters, mounted on the grey steeds Alexander and Ace, followed by the Nishaan Toli. The National Flag is carried by Major Harshvardhan Udawat, astride Vijay, the President's Standard is carried by Risaldar Omprakash astride Arihant, while the Regimental Standard is borne by Risaldar Rajender Rathod, astride Aryan. The rear division is commanded by Risaldar Vinod Kumar, mounted on Arjun. The winter uniform of the regiment includes blue and gold pagris, red angrakhas with gold girdles, white gloves, breeches, and black boots with spurs. Officers and JCOs carry the Kirach, a cavalry sword, while the mounted bodyguards carry the Ballam, a 9-foot-9-inch handcrafted lance symbolising "Apmaan se pehle Balidaan" (Blood over Surrender). As part of the grand Republic Day celebrations, the nation is accorded the highest military honour, the 21 Gun Salute, which was presented by the 1,721 Ceremonial Battery of the 172 Field Regiment. The ceremonial salute was commanded by Major Pawan Singh Shekhawat, with Naib Subedar (AIG) Anutosh Sarkar performing the duties of the Gun Position Officer. The 21 Gun Salute is a time-honoured tradition, observed on Republic Day and Independence Day, and during State visits of foreign Heads of State. On this solemn occasion, it stands as a powerful tribute to the National Flag, symbolising the sovereignty, unity and strength of the Republic of India. Executed with flawless precision, the salute is fired using 105 mm Light Field Guns, an indigenously developed artillery weapon system, deployed along the iconic Kartavya Path. The firing of the salute was meticulously synchronised with three defining ceremonial moments: the unfurling of the National Flag, the rendering of the National Anthem by the Services Bands, and the National Salute by the President's Bodyguard. The National Flag was unfurled with pride, assisted by Indian Air Force officer Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar, symbolising the unwavering commitment, discipline, and valour of the Indian Air Force in the service of the nation. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 11:51 AM IST | New Delhi [India] | ANIAs Republic Day celebrations got underway in the national capital on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage at the National War Memorial near India Gate. He was joined by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal A P S Singh, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, reported news agency ANI. Laying of the wreath marks the commencement of the Republic Day celebrations and stands as a tribute to personnel who made the supreme sacrifice. An Inter-Services Guard, comprising 21 inner guards, seven from each Service and six buglers, two from each service were present for the ceremony. Inner guards from the Indian Air Force included one Sergeant with six Corporals and below ranks, reported ANI. Guard of Honour reflects joint defence ethos, led by Indian Air Force Indian Air Force being the lead service, the Guard of Honour was commanded by Squadron Leader Hemant Singh Kanyal, reflecting the joint ethos of the Indian Defence Forces. Following the wreath-laying, the Guard Commander ordered the Salami Shastra, followed by the Shok Shastra. The solemn notes of the 'Last Post' echo through the precincts as officers in uniform render a salute, while all others stand in attention paying respects. A two-minute silence was observed in honour of the bravehearts. At the conclusion of the silence, the buglers sound the 'Rouse'. As per ANI, the Guard Commander once again ordered the Salami Shastra, formally concluding the ceremony. PM Modi, along with other dignitaries have proceeded to the saluting dais to continue the Republic Day celebrations. Earlier today, Prime Minister Modi extended greetings on the 77th Republic Day, urging citizens to renew their commitment to a 'Viksit Bharat'. In a post X, PM Modi said, "Greetings to all countrymen on Republic Day. This national festival, symbolising India's pride and honour, should infuse new energy and enthusiasm, strengthening the resolve for Viksit Bharat." Republic Day, observed annually on January 26, marks the day India adopted its Constitution in 1950, officially becoming a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The day holds immense historical significance as it represents the culmination of India's long struggle for independence and the establishment of constitutional governance based on justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. Today, President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the grand celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. (With ANI inputs)
26 January,2026 11:50 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIn a novel move, enclosures set up along the Kartavya Path for the 77th Republic Day Parade have been named after India's rivers, such as the Ganga, Yamuna, Krishna, Narmada and Periyar. Layout maps and banners have been put up at regular intervals on streets near the parade venue to guide guests to their enclosures. In a departure from traditional practice, 'VVIP' and other labels have not been used to demarcate the enclosures. Instead, these have been named after rivers flowing in India, senior officials of the defence ministry had said earlier this month. These include the Beas, Brahmaputra, Chambal, Chenab, Gandak, Ganga, Ghagra, Godavari, Sindhu, Jhelum, Kaveri, Kosi, Krishna, Mahanadi, Narmada, Pennar, Periyar, Ravi, Sone, Sutlej, Teesta, Vaigai, and Yamuna. Similarly, for the Beating Retreat Ceremony on January 29, enclosures will be named on Indian instruments -- bansuri, damaru, ektara, esraj, mridangam, nagada, pakhawaj, santoor, sarangi, sarinda, sarod, shehnai, sitar, surbahar, tabla and veena. The sesquicentenary of 'Vande Mataram' is the dominant theme of this year's Republic Day celebrations, with enclosure backdrops along the Kartavya Path displaying old paintings, illustrating its opening stanzas. 'Vande Mataram' was composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875. Tunes of 'Sare Jehan Se Achha', 'Kadam Kadam Badhai Ja' and other such songs played over loudspeakers alongside 'Vande Mataram', adding to the patriotic fervour of the occasion. President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, are chief guests at the parade. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 11:50 AM IST | New Delhi | PTILeader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday extended Republic Day greetings to citizens, asserting that safeguarding the Constitution is synonymous with protecting the Indian Republic and is the truest tribute to the sacrifices of the nation’s freedom fighters. In a message posted on X, Gandhi said the Constitution is every Indian’s greatest strength and the guardian of citizens’ rights. “Our Republic stands on its strong foundation, which will only be strengthened by equality and harmony. Protecting the Constitution is protecting the Indian Republic—a true tribute to the sacrifices of our freedom fighters,” he wrote, concluding with “Jai Hind! Jai Constitution.” Kharge calls Constitution guardian of India’s conscience Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also conveyed Republic Day wishes, noting that this year marks 76 years since the adoption of the Constitution. In his message, Kharge described the Constitution as the enduring guardian of India’s conscience and the soul of the Republic, calling on citizens to be prepared to make every sacrifice necessary to safeguard it. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoes call to safeguard Constitution Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed similar sentiments, stating that the Constitution guarantees liberty, equality, justice and fraternity to every Indian. “Our Constitution is the shield of 1.4 billion Indians. Our resolve to protect it is rock solid,” she said. Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path to highlight national themes Meanwhile, the grand Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path is scheduled to begin shortly and will last about 90 minutes. The theme of this year’s celebrations is “150 Years of Vande Mataram,” with tableaux, cultural performances and displays by the Armed Forces showcasing India’s development journey, cultural diversity and military strength. Republic Day marks adoption of Constitution in 1950 Republic Day is observed annually on January 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India, the supreme law binding on all citizens. While India gained Independence on August 15, 1947, governance initially relied on a modified version of the Government of India Act, 1935, along with elements of common law. Following Independence, a Drafting Committee was constituted to frame a comprehensive Constitution, with Dr B. R. Ambedkar serving as its chairman. After extensive deliberations, the Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949—now observed as Constitution Day—and came into force on January 26, 1950, marking India’s transformation into a sovereign, democratic and republican state governed by the rule of law.
26 January,2026 10:49 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1769422078507_d.png?tr=w-436,h-271 "Kishtwar operation expanded with drones, helicopters and sniffer dogs to hunt down terrorists. File Pic")
-1769420716478_d.png "Dattatreya Hosabale urges citizens to uphold India’s spiritual and constitutional values. File Pic")
-1769415119943_d.png "Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla urges citizens to build ‘Viksit Bharat’ on the 77th Republic Day. File Pic")
-1769416071649_d.png "Indian Air Force’s aircraft performs a flypast in 'Operation Sindoor' formation during the Parade. PIC/PTI")
-1769414641809_d.png "Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets the gathering after the 77th Republic Day Parade, at Kartavya Path, in New Delhi. (Pic/PTI)")
 for the 77th Republic Day celebr-1769407159310_d.png "President Droupadi Murmu arrives at Kartavya Path in a ceremonial buggy, escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, for the 77th Republic Day celebrations. (Pic/PTI)")
-1769406525120_d.png "Enclosures along Kartavya Path named after Indian rivers during the Republic Day parade. File Pic")
