India's Journey from Colonial Rule to Modern Democracy

Emerging from colonial rule, India, known as Bharat, transitioned to a democracy with a universal adult franchise, setting up its Constitution amidst sectarian violence.

• India's Constitution promised democratic freedoms, equality, dignity, and fraternity for all citizens.
• Universal adult suffrage was established at a time when western nations did not offer such guarantees.
• Aimed at social justice, the Constitution envisioned equitable distribution of resources.

Achievements Over 75 Years

• Life Expectancy: Grew from 32 years to 75 years.
• Agriculture: Became one of the largest producers of food grains.
• Literacy Rate: Increased from 12% to 75%.
• Infrastructure: Major improvements in power generation and road development.
• Economy: Fifth largest globally.
• Space Exploration: Chandrayaan-3's successful landing.
• Political Stability: Demonstrated remarkable stability compared to neighboring countries.

Challenges in Equality and Justice

The 75th anniversary of the Constitution is also a time for reflection on wealth distribution and gender disparity.

• A minority holds a major share of income despite increased national wealth.
• Significant gender disparities persist in various aspects of society.

Constitutional Guarantees

The Constitution guarantees dignity, justice, fraternity, and liberty.

• The state is responsible for ensuring access to education, public health, employment, and a basic standard of living.
• Efforts must go beyond basic needs to eliminate caste discrimination and practices like manual scavenging.

Reimagining the Legal System

The legal system requires reformation to provide quick and affordable justice.

• For a population of 1.4 billion, there are only 25,081 sanctioned judges.
• Judges handle an overwhelming number of cases daily, with over 20,000 courtrooms available.
• Long-term plans are needed to address infrastructure and manpower challenges in courts.

Digital Revolution and Its Challenges

India's digital revolution is transforming daily life but also highlights a digital divide.

• Access to digital services is restricted by geographical, financial, and literacy barriers.
• This divide makes millions vulnerable regarding their rights and access to essential services.

Climate Change and Its Impact

Efforts to mitigate climate change's impact on India's vast territory are crucial.

• India faces warming climates, altered rainfall patterns, droughts, and floods.
• These changes adversely affect public health, agriculture, nutrition, and safety, disproportionately impacting the marginalized.

The challenge lies in ensuring equality and justice—social, economic, and political—while assuring the dignity of each individual.