On January 26, 2026, PM Narendra Modi spoke to the people of India at the 77th Republic Day celebration in New Delhi. His remarks were a tribute to patriotism, cultural pride, and a roadmap for India’s future. Modi addressed topics including India's values for democracy and martial prowess, its cultural and historical integrity, and the need for citizens and the country to cooperate to realize the vision of a Developed India by 2047 when the country will celebrate the 100th year of independence.
Greeting the Nation
He started his address with warm wishes to all citizens on Republic Day. This is not just observing India’s Constitution, he said, but also a reaffirmation of the determination to turn India into a stronger and more prosperous country. Modi called upon all to take pride in India’s accomplishments and take part in the process of the nation establishing and developing itself.
Tribute to Fallen Soldiers
Before the parade, Modi offered a salutation to the National War Memorial as a way to pay respects to India’s armed forces. We can have these freedoms and protect our lives, the freedom we see today, in no small part due to the bravery of soldiers who fight so hard to sustain this country.
Cultural Pride: Vande Mataram
Vande Mataram One highlight of the parade was the celebration of the national song, Vande Mataram, which has been sung for 150 years. In this speech, Modi talked about how this song has encouraged countless generations of Indians to the quest for freedom, for togetherness and patriotism. The fact that this subject matter featured in a parade was a reflection of India’s reverence for its cultural heritage.
Showcasing Development
The Republic Day parade featured tableaux from different states and ministries, each conveying a different aspect of India’s development journey. The displays of India’s progress, from infrastructure projects to social welfare programs, showed the country in development — in everything from technology to education, health care, etc. Modi said these successes are evidence that India has a will to evolve, despite challenges.
Military Strength and Operation Sindoor
India’s defense capabilities as well as Military Strength. Newly raised military units marched with pride and mock-ups of indigenous weapon systems employed in Operation Sindoor were presented. Modi said India is getting more self-sufficient in defense, decreasing reliance on imports while enhancing national security.
Unity in Diversity
The cultural performances and tableaux also played to India’s unity in diversity. From traditional dance to regional art forms, the parade feted the diversity of India’s culture. Modi told citizens India’s true strength is in integrating the different cultures, people, languages and values, and not a single nation but one nation.
Global Diplomacy
This year’s Republic Day had particular international significance, with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joining as chief guests. They are a symbol of India’s increasing alliance with the European Union, where the country has a trustful status as a global partner in trade, technology and security, Modi added.
Security and Technology
The police also deployed AI video surveillance infrastructure and over 30,000 officers with surveillance software to keep the celebration safe, said Delhi Police. Modi pointed out that technology is not only for development but also public safety and, when it comes to this, is also a way for India to show its country’s willingness to embrace technology for the future.
Youth, Innovation, and Climate Goals
Modi talked about the youth, he urged young innovators and businesspeople to lead in technology, sustainability and clean energy. He also reiterated India’s commitment to hit net-zero emissions by 2070, entwining national progress with environmental stewardship.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech on Republic Day 2026 was a touching yet still uplifting celebration of the nation’s proud past at the same time looking forward. Modi portrayed India as a nation of confidence, aspiration and grandeur through celebration, patriotism and the focus on cultural pride -- by paying homage to soldiers, celebrating cultural pride, demonstrating development, and emphasizing global co-operation -- by giving expression to his people. Calling on the state and society to work together to make “Developed India by 2047” of India's vision was a common cause, it expresses what he saw as the universal Indian adventure that is all collective and takes unity, ingenuity and passion. This Republic Day speech is going to be remembered as a moment through which India looked back with pride and forward with determination, showing once again its status as a rising power in the world.
