Joining with the rest of the nation, Chandel Forest Division also observed Constitution Day 2025 at the office of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chandel on Wednesday.
Local leaders, representatives of various local communities, and staff of the Forest Department took part in the event.
Speaking at the event, DFO/Chandel Dr. N. Munal Meitei said that the Constitution is the supreme law that enables India to function as a sovereign democratic nation and guides the country. The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 and came into force on 26 January 1950, the day India became a Republic.
Dr. N. Munal added that the original Constitution, which came into effect, had 395 Articles, but over time it has been gradually amended and currently stands at Article 448. He further said that till date, the Constitution has undergone 106 amendments. Among these, one of the notable amendments was made in 2023, which increased the reservation for women to 33% in both the State Assemblies and the Parliament.
It may be recalled that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is acknowledged as the Father of the Indian Constitution. However, he served as the Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee, which consisted of six other members as well. Among them was K.M. Munshi, who was also the first Agriculture Minister of India. The nationwide Vanamahotsava—Forest Festival—first celebrated on 7 July each year, is said to have been initiated by K.M. Munshi.
Dr. N. Munal also highlighted that Article 51A(g) of the Indian Constitution lays down the fundamental duty of every citizen to protect forests, wildlife, animals, and all natural resources such as hills and rivers.
On the occasion, Dr. N. Munal appealed to everyone to work collectively for the development of the nation and to safeguard the environment as a shared responsibility.
