On Tuesday, Israel extended heartfelt congratulations to India on the occasion of the country’s 70th Constitution Day, celebrating the promulgation of India’s landmark Constitution. In a gesture of goodwill and camaraderie, Israel highlighted the deep historical significance of India’s Constitution, calling it a reflection of the nation’s “unique history and culture.”
The Office of the Prime Minister of Israel took to social media to express its warm wishes. “Congratulations to my dear friend Prime Minister @NarendraModi and the people of India on the 70th anniversary of India’s Constitution Day. India is the largest democracy in the world. Your landmark constitution combines East and West, reflecting India’s unique history and culture,” read the tweet from Israel’s official account.
Israel’s acknowledgment of shared democratic values
In addition to celebrating the momentous occasion, Israel emphasized the common democratic values shared between the two nations, such as the rule of law, liberty, and equality, which are enshrined in both countries’ Constitutions. The relationship between India and Israel has grown stronger over the years, bolstered by mutual respect for democratic principles and a commitment to innovation.
“Our countries are both vibrant democracies, proud of our achievements, eager to seize the future with innovation and imagination. Happy Constitution Day, India!” said another tweet from the Office of the Prime Minister of Israel.
A historic milestone for India
Constitution Day, observed on November 26, marks the day in 1949 when the Indian Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution, nearly two and a half years after the nation gained independence from British rule. While it was originally commemorated as Law Day, the day holds great significance as it laid the foundation for modern Indian governance and legal systems. The Constitution officially came into effect on January 26, 1950, a day now celebrated annually as Republic Day, heralding the beginning of a new chapter in India’s history.
The Indian Constitution is one of the lengthiest written Constitutions in the world. Comprising a Preamble, 22 parts, 395 articles, and eight schedules, it serves as the cornerstone of the Indian legal and political system. The Constitution reflects the aspirations and values of a diverse population, blending the principles of Western democracy with India’s unique cultural and historical context.
Tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and India’s legal heritage
The celebration of Constitution Day is not only about honoring the document itself but also paying tribute to the individuals who played a crucial role in its drafting. Chief among them is Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, India’s first Law Minister and the Chairman of the Drafting Committee. His tireless efforts in framing the Constitution earned him the title of the “Architect of the Indian Constitution.” Ambedkar’s vision and leadership were instrumental in creating a document that would ensure equality, justice, and fundamental rights for all citizens, particularly marginalized communities.
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The Constitution Day celebration was first officially recognized in 2015. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the decision to celebrate the day while laying the foundation stone of the Statue of Equality in Mumbai on October 11, 2015. The move was seen as a way to honor Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy and acknowledge his profound contributions to India’s legal framework.
Strengthening India-Israel ties
India and Israel’s growing bilateral relationship is built on a foundation of shared values, including democratic governance, innovation, and strategic cooperation. The two nations have deepened their ties over the years in areas such as defense, technology, agriculture, and more recently, health and cybersecurity. Tuesday’s warm message from Israel on India’s Constitution Day is another reflection of the close bond between the two countries.
The future of democracy and innovation
As India celebrates 70 years of its Constitution, both India and Israel look forward to a future shaped by democratic values and technological advancements. Israel’s message on Constitution Day underlines the potential for the two countries to continue fostering cooperation, while simultaneously cherishing their unique cultural identities.
On this momentous occasion, India stands proud of its accomplishments over the past seven decades as the world’s largest democracy. The Indian Constitution, a document that encapsulates the ideals of justice, equality, and liberty, continues to serve as a guiding light for the nation’s development, ensuring that the principles upon which it was founded remain alive and relevant.
