Nagaland Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Sunday called for inclusive and sustainable development, rural empowerment and youth-led growth as India marked its 77th Republic Day.
In his Republic Day message to the people of Nagaland, the Governor said the occasion marked the adoption of the Constitution in 1950 and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to the ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity that form the foundation of India’s democratic framework.
Referring to the national themes of this year’s celebrations — “Vande Mataram”, marking the 150th anniversary of the national song, and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” — Bhalla said the themes reflected India’s connection to its heritage while charting a path towards a self-reliant and prosperous future. He said Nagaland’s diverse tribes, cultures and traditions reflected the spirit of unity in diversity that defined the nation.
The Governor said Atmanirbhar Bharat called for translating patriotic sentiment into purposeful action, adding that self-reliance meant building a nation that was confident, innovative and inclusive. He stressed that development must be people-centric and reach the last mile.
Highlighting India’s long-term vision towards 2047, Bhalla said green growth, renewable energy, climate action and sustainable development were key national priorities.
He said Nagaland, with its rich biodiversity and natural resources, had a significant role to play in preserving ecological balance while pursuing development.
The Governor also spoke on the impact of Digital India, stating that technology was transforming governance, education, healthcare and entrepreneurship. He said digital connectivity in Nagaland was creating new opportunities for youth, farmers, artisans and entrepreneurs by enabling access to national and global markets.
Emphasising the role of women in nation-building, Bhalla said Nari Shakti lay at the heart of India’s growth story. He said women in Nagaland had long been custodians of culture, economy and social harmony, and called for continued focus on education, skill development and opportunities for women.
On rural development, the Governor said a prosperous India must rise from prosperous villages. He said infrastructure development, agricultural reforms, digital services and entrepreneurship in rural areas were improving livelihoods and quality of life.
Calling youth the driving force of a New India, Bhalla said young people were emerging as innovators, job creators and nation builders across sectors such as science, technology, sports, arts and public service. He said it was a collective responsibility to nurture their talents and aspirations.
The Governor said the Constitution guaranteed not only rights but also responsibilities, and called upon citizens to uphold unity, dignity and mutual respect. He said Nagaland’s customary laws and traditions blended with India’s constitutional framework, strengthening the country’s federal democracy.
Concluding his message, Bhalla urged citizens to work together in harmony and reaffirm their commitment to building an India that was developed, democratic and compassionate. He paid tribute to the architects of the Constitution and freedom fighters, and extended his Republic Day greetings to the people of Nagaland.
