The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. The celebrations commenced in the morning with Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. C. T. Aravindakumar unfurling the national flag and inspecting the parade presented by the university security personnel.

In his Republic Day message, the Vice Chancellor observed that the day is not merely an occasion for celebration, but also a moment to reflect upon and reaffirm the core constitutional values of justice, equality, freedom and fraternity. He recalled that India became a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic on January 26, 1950, with the adoption of the Constitution drafted under the leadership of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, which remains one of the largest and most comprehensive constitutions in the world.

Highlighting India’s progress since independence, Prof. Dr. Aravindakumar noted that the country has achieved remarkable growth in various sectors. He pointed out that India’s economy continues to expand steadily, with the GDP growth rate for 2026 projected at 7.3 per cent, reflecting strong economic prospects. He also remarked that the Indian armed forces rank as the fourth largest in the world, while the nation is witnessing rapid advancements in the fields of science and technology.

The Vice Chancellor further emphasised that India’s greatest strength lies in its demographic dividend, with nearly 65 per cent of the population below the age of 35, offering immense potential for national development. He added that Kerala, too, has made significant strides in social and economic development, particularly in addressing poverty and improving quality of life.

Syndicate members Adv. P. B. Satheesh Kumar, Prof. Dr. Robinet Jacob, Registrar Prof. Dr. Bismi Gopalakrishnan,and other university officials were present on the occasion.