Embassy of India,
Phnom Penh

Press Release

Embassy of India Celebrates 76th Republic Day in Phnom Penh

    The Embassy of India in Phnom Penh celebrated the 76th Republic Day of India with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour on 26 January 2025 at the Chancery premises.

The celebration began with the unfurling of the National Flag by the Ambassador-designate of the Republic of India to the Kingdom of Cambodia, Mr. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, followed by the singing of the National Anthem of India. Ambassador, thereafter, read out the address of the Hon’ble President of India to the nation.

In her address, the President congratulated citizens as India celebrated 75 years of its Constitution. She honored the sacrifices of freedom fighters, including Bhagwan Birsa Munda, and acknowledged leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Babasaheb Ambedkar for embedding democratic values in the nation. Highlighting the diversity and inclusivity of the Constituent Assembly, the President celebrated the contributions of 15 pioneering women, including Sarojini Naidu and Sucheta Kripalani, who helped shape the nation’s future. She lauded the Constitution as a living document that has guided India's remarkable progress and transformation over 75 years.

The President also detailed India’s strides in economic development, social welfare, and technological innovation. She highlighted government initiatives promoting financial inclusion, housing, education, and infrastructure development. The address underscored India's growing leadership in science, technology, and space exploration. The President celebrated milestones like ISRO’s Space Docking Experiment and initiatives such as the National Quantum Mission, the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical System, and the Genome India Project, emphasising their role in shaping India’s future. She also commended the nation’s achievements in sports, including D. Gukesh’s historic victory as the youngest World Chess Champion.

The President concluded by invoking Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Swaraj, urging all citizens to uphold truth, nonviolence, and compassion. She expressed confidence in India’s youth and their dreams, which will lead the nation toward a developed and sustainable future by 2047.

The event showcased vibrant cultural performances, including dances, the singing of patriotic songs, and the recital of poems by members of the Indian diaspora and Embassy officials. Additionally, certificates were awarded to top performers in Cambodia from the 5th Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz, celebrating their outstanding knowledge of India’s heritage and culture.

Ambassador expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Indian community, students, and friends of India who joined the celebration in large numbers. He acknowledged their invaluable contributions in strengthening the bonds between India and Cambodia and encouraged their continued engagement with the Embassy’s initiatives. All the guests joining the occasion enjoyed traditional Indian refreshments at the end of the event.

Phnom Penh, 26 January, 2025