Y.E. Amb. Sheikh Hilal Al Ma’amari, Chief of West Asia Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Other Dignitaries from Oman
Dr. Satish Nambiar, Chairman, ISC
Members of Dr. Ambedkar International Mission in Oman
Our Esteemed Speakers,
Distinguished Guests,
Dear Students,

I extend a warm welcome to all of you to the celebration of the Constitution Day of India.

As you know, India celebrates Constitution Day on 26 November every year to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India on 26 November 1949 by the Constituent Assembly of India which came into effect on 26 January 1950.

The Constitution of India is the foundational law which lays the basic political structure of our country. It embodies the vision and values of our founding fathers. It reflects the hopes and aspirations of the people of India. Through the Constitution, the people of India resolved to constitute India into a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic; and to secure justice, liberty and equality for all citizens.

The Indian Constitution is the lengthiest and most detailed Constitution in the world. However, in simple words, as Prime Minister Modi summarised, it embodies two fundamental principles - “Dignity for Indians and Unity for India”.

The Constitution is a living document. Chairman of the Drafting Committee and principal architect of the Constitution Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar had said - “Constitution is not a lawyers document, it is a vehicle of life and its spirit is always the spirit of age”.
Today’s event is special as we commemorate the 70thAnniversary of the adoption of the Constitution. We have some eminent speakers who will throw light on different facets of the Constitution. We also have school children reenacting the debate in the Constituent Assembly. You would have already seen the photo exhibition of some rare pictures depicting the life and contribution of Dr. Ambedkar. I am sure you will find this programme meaningful.

Let me also say that today’s event is only the beginning. For this special occasion, Government of India has planned year-long celebrations. One of the well known features of the Indian Constitution is the section on Fundamental Rights. However, along with this, the Constitution also specifies 11 fundamental duties for the Citizens. Fundamental duties focus on key values of Respect, Pride, Tolerance, Peace, Growth and Harmony. As Mahatama Gandhi said - “Right is Duty well performed”. To highlight this aspect, the year long celebrations are titled as ‘Constitution Day and campaign on Citizens’ Duties’ which begin today and will continue till 26 November 2020.

I am happy to announce that every month, one of the wings of the Indian Social Club and one Indian School will partner with Embassy of India to organize an event focusing on one of the fundamental duties. I invite you all to actively participate in these events.

Before concluding, I would like to once again thank all the distinguished guests for their presence. Special thanks to our Omani friends who have joined us despite the commencement of National Day holidays. I would like to take this opportunity to once again convey our best wishes for the peace, progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Oman and for a long and healthy life of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said.

I wish you all a very pleasant evening.

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