Why PM Hoists the Tricolour on Independence Day, But President Unfurls It on Republic Day

On the 15th of August, every year, Honorable Prime Minister of the country raises the Indian Tricolour at the Red Fort on the Independence Day. While, Honorable President, on the other hand, unfurls the national flag on the 26th of January (Republic Day) on Kartavya Path.

As these two events might seem quite similar, but there is actually a significant historical difference between the two events. While Independence Day is celebrated to mark the India’s freedom from British rule in 1947, Republic Day celebrates the day the Constitution came into effect in the year 1950.

Why Does the Prime Minister Hoist the Flag on Independence Day?

The 15th of August, 1947 marks the date when India was free from British colonial rule. It is therefore, the day when the flag raising ceremony takes place as it is associated with the country’s freedom and the fight for independence.

During the first Independence Day in 1947, Prime Minister Nehru raised the national flag at the Red Fort. This tradition has since then been maintained and continued where the Prime Minister unfurls the Tricolour flag at the Red Fort and addresses the nation.

The flag raising ceremony symbolizes the country’s freedom from British rule and also pays tribute to the freedom struggle of the country.

The ceremony begins by the Prime Minister hoisting the Tricolour at the base of the flagpole followed by the playing of the National Anthem.

Why Do the President Unfold the Flag on the Republic Day?

The Republic Day marks a different event in the history of India.

The Constitution of India came into effect on January 26, 1950, and India became a republic. The Constitution replaced the Government of India Act, 1935, which was used as the country’s constitution till that time.

As part of Republic Day celebrations, the Indian President unfolds the national flag at Kartavya Path, New Delhi before the official celebration and Republic Day Parade.

In contrast to Independence Day celebrations, the flag is already fixed at the top of the pole, and the President just unfolds it during the ceremony.

After the unfolding ceremony, the spectacular Republic Day Parade starts, showcasing India’s military prowess, cultural richness, and achievements of the Republic.

What Is the Difference Between Hoisting and Unfurling?

The difference between hoisting and unfurling is directly related to the historic circumstances of both events.

On the Independence Day, the national flag is hoisted from the lower part of the pole up to the top. It symbolizes the appearance of an independent nation.

On the Republic Day, the flag is already located at the top of the pole and needs to be just unfolded.

Why Does The Prime Minister Head Independence Day Celebrations?

The Prime Minister is the head of the government and therefore considered the political head of the country.

The Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort have traditionally taken place as an event which provides an opportunity for the Prime Minister to address the nation about achievements, challenges and priorities of the country.

Red Fort has great historical significance and the Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort began right from the first year of independence.

Why Is the President the Head of Republic Day Celebrations?

The President is the constitutional head of the Republic of India. Republic Day is when the constitution of India comes into effect; hence, the role played by the President becomes relevant.

Unfurling the national flag by the President on Kartavya Path is soon followed by the Republic Day Parade, which highlights India’s constitutional identity, sovereignty, military might, and cultural diversities.

Thus, there is a clear distinction between the two since both have different constitutional identities.

Independence Day and Republic Day: What Is the Distinction Between Them?

The simplest way to remember the distinction is as follows,

• Independence Day = India is Independent of the British
• Republic Day = The Indian Constitution Comes Into Effect

India became an independent country on August 15, 1947, whereas the country became a republic on January 26, 1950.

Thus, the ceremony of the Prime Minister on the Independence Day pertains to the freedom of the country, while that of the President on the Republic Day concerns India’s constitution.