On the eve of the 77th Republic Day, the Hon’ble Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Tokhan Sahu, interacted with beneficiaries of the flagship PM SVANidhi scheme and construction workers associated with landmark national projects such as Kartavya Path and Kartavya Bhawan, who have been specially invited to attend the Republic Day Celebrations this year.

The interaction was also  graced by Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Srinivas Katithikala, senior officers of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

 

The interaction reflected the Government’s steadfast commitment to inclusive and people-centric urban development and last-mile delivery under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

During the interaction, street vendors and construction workers shared firsthand experiences of how Government interventions have enhanced their livelihoods, financial inclusion, dignity and social security, and enabled them to become active participants in India’s growth story.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Tokhan Sahu said that Republic Day has evolved from being only a ceremonial occasion to becoming a true celebration of Jan Bhagidari, where citizens from all walks of life are at the centre of national pride. He noted that when these Special Guests witness the Republic Day Parade, the world will see that the foundation of New India rests on the strength of its workers, street vendors and ordinary citizens.

Highlighting the transformative impact of PM SVANidhi, the Minister said that the scheme is not merely a credit programme, but a mission for dignity, self-reliance and empowerment of street vendors. He informed that more than one crore loans have been disbursed under the scheme.

The Minister added that the digital empowerment of vendors is evident from their widespread adoption of QR-based transactions and large-scale digital payments, reflecting their integration into the formal financial ecosystem.

The Minister further noted that the extension of PM SVANidhi till March 2030 underlines the Government’s long-term commitment to ensuring that every street vendor is empowered. He also made a reference to the recent launch of credit cards with a limit of up to ₹30,000 for PM SVANidhi beneficiaries, which will further strengthen their access to affordable institutional credit.

Paying tribute to construction workers, Shri Tokhan Sahu said that iconic projects such as Central Vista, Kartavya Path and Kartavya Bhawan are not merely concrete structures, but symbols of a new work culture rooted in service, efficiency and national purpose. He described construction workers as the true “architects of the nation’s destiny” and reiterated that the Government is committed to ensuring respect, welfare and recognition for those who build modern India.

The Minister concluded by reaffirming the Prime Minister’s guiding mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas, and called upon all citizens to work together towards building a strong, inclusive and developed India by 2047.

On the occasion Secretary, MoHUA , Shri Srinivas Katithikala warmly welcomed the guests, extending greetings on the occasion of the upcoming Republic Day.

He recalled that India attained Independence in 1947 and adopted the Constitution in 1950, thereby becoming a Republic. He emphasized that a Republic signifies a nation where supreme power rests with the people, and governance is carried out in their name.
Highlighting the significance of the occasion, he said that it would be a proud and memorable experience to witness the Republic Day Parade tomorrow in the august presence of the Hon’ble President of India, celebrating India’s democratic values, unity, and constitutional spirit.
 

A total of 200 Special Guests comprising PM SVANidhi beneficiaries and construction workers from multiple States have been invited to participate in the Republic Day 2026 celebrations. Earlier in the day, special guests visited PM Sangrahalaya.

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