Why is it in the news?
→ Republic Day 2026 marked the 77th anniversary of the Constitution of India coming into force on 26 January 1950.
→ Celebrated with the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram” featuring tableaux, military display, awards and international participation.
Category
History
Important Points
- 77th Republic Day celebrated in 2026 with the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram”.
- The Constitution of India came into force on 26 January 1950.
- 30 tableaux presented by States, UTs and Ministries under “Swatantrata ka Mantra – Vande Mataram” and “Samriddhi ka Mantra – Atmanirbhar Bharat”.
- The newly raised Bhairav Battalion made its parade debut as a specialised assault infantry unit.
- The European Union military contingent participated for the first time outside Europe.
- Purna Swaraj Resolution passed at INC Lahore Session, Dec 1929 under Jawaharlal Nehru.
- 26 January 1930 is observed as Purna Swaraj Day across India.
- Constitution adopted on 26 November 1949 and enforced on 26 January 1950 replacing Government of India Act, 1935. India became a Sovereign Democratic Republic; the President replaced the British Monarch as Head of State.
- The 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976) added “Socialist” and “Secular” to Preamble.
- Key tableaux highlights included Kochi Water Metro, Ganeshotsav, Bundelkhand heritage, Vande Mataram journey, Operation Sindoor joint forces, BrahMos, S-400, Rafale with SCALP, HAROP.
- Padma Awards 2026: 131 awards (5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, 113 Padma Shri).
- Armed Forces Gallantry: 70 personnel; 301 defence decorations conferred.
- 982 personnel from Police, Fire, HG&CD and Correctional Services awarded gallantry/service medals.
- Vande Mataram composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, first published 1875, included in Anandamath (1882); set to music by Rabindranath Tagore.
- On 24 January 1950, Dr Rajendra Prasad declared Vande Mataram to be honoured equally as National Song.