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India-UAE partnership shaped by common values, strategic convergence
The Republic Day is a powerful reminder of India’s democratic values and its enduring commitment to inclusive growth and the rule of law
- PUBLISHED: Mon 26 Jan 2026, 11:12 AM
As India celebrates its 77th Republic Day on 26 January, we commemorate a defining moment in our national journey — the hallowed day in 1950 when the Constitution of India came into force, giving institutional shape to the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity which has been enshrined in Indian civilisational ethos for millennia. Republic Day is not a ceremonial occasion; it is a powerful reminder of India’s democratic values and its enduring commitment to inclusive growth and the rule of law. At the heart of India’s stellar march to prosperity lies its vibrant democracy — one that thrives on debate, diversity, and participation.
This year’s Republic Day carries special significance as India continues to navigate a period of transformation — economically, technologically, and socially — while also deepening partnerships across the world. Among these, the relationship between India and the UAE stands out as one of the most dynamic and forward-looking bilateral partnerships of our time.
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What also stands out this year is that India is celebrating 150th anniversary of the Vande Mataram — (Salute to Motherland), an emotion that galvanised India’s freedom struggle and laid the foundation for what we are as a nation today — plural, patriotic and progressive. It is on this very day in 1950 that Vande Mataram was adopted as the National Song of India by the Constituent Assembly.
While reminiscing our journey these 77 years, the profound change that India has undergone over the past decade is striking. Today, despite encountering significant headwinds, it is the world’s fastest-growing major economy with more than seven per cent gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate, driven by policy vision, structural reforms, innovation, and the entrepreneurial energy of its people.
Flagship initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat have strengthened domestic capabilities while integrating India deeply into global value chains.
India’s digital public infrastructure — including Aadhaar, UPI, Digilocker, and other digital governance platforms — have emerged as a global benchmark for inclusive and scalable innovation driven e-governance. These systems have empowered millions, expanded financial inclusion, ushered in unprecedented transparency and enabled efficient delivery of public services.
India’s leadership in digital solutions is now being shared with partner countries, reinforcing its role as a contributor to global public good. The UAE is now home to a large number of entities — Dubai Duty Free, retail outlets and iconic tourist attractions which are accepting UPI for payment. The day is not far away when payments across establishments and remittances by expats in UAE would be 100 per cent UPI enabled. That would be another milestone in integrating our two vibrant economies.
Every Indian, wherever they are in the world can be proud that India is a nation on the move. Last year, India crossed the milestone of more than 1 billion internet connections. She entered the club of select nations with indigenous 4G stack of her own. This means that India has a complete, locally developed system of hardware and software for mobile networks which will reduce foreign dependency, enhance national security and enable upgrades to 5G, boosting digital inclusion in rural areas.
India has also made notable progress in renewable energy, climate action, and sustainable development. The Indian railways achieved 100 per cent electrification across 22 states/ Union Territories of India. Through ambitious national targets for clean energy, major investments in green hydrogen, electric mobility, and sustainable infrastructure, India has demonstrated that economic growth and environmental responsibility can advance together.
In science and technology, India continues to scale new frontiers. India launched its first microprocessor — Vikram-32 this year which will make her technologically self-reliant and digitally more sovereign. Achievements in space exploration, including ISS visit by our Astronaut and launch of heaviest satellite apart from lunar and solar missions, have further demonstrated India’s capabilities in niche areas.
This year India made remarkable progress in infrastructure development whether it was inauguration of world’s highest rail arch bridge on Chenab or opening of Sonamarg tunnel providing all weather connectivity. India’s first deepwater multipurpose sea port in Vizhinjam, Kerala was also inaugurated.
Despite the economic strides, nothing captures our nation’s spirit today better than Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s 1875 composition Vande Mataram.The song symbolised resistance against colonial rule, unity across communities, and devotion to the motherland. It was sung in moments of sacrifice and struggle, echoing the aspirations of a nation seeking dignity and self-determination. It continues to inspire pride and unity among Indians across the world.
For the Indian diaspora in the UAE — the largest and most vibrant among Indian diapora — Vande Mataram remains a powerful emotional bridge connecting them to their roots while they actively contribute to the progress of their adopted homeland.
India’s aspirations are global in outlook yet inclusive in spirit. Our partnerships, especially with trusted friends like the UAE, are essential in realising these aspirations. The India-UAE relationship is no longer limited to shared history or economic convenience; it is a partnership shaped by common values, strategic convergence, and a shared vision for peace and prosperity in the region and beyond.
On this auspicious occasion, I extend my heartfelt wishes to the Indian community and convey my sincere gratitude to the leadership and people of the UAE for their support. May the friendship between our two nations continue to flourish, guided by trust, innovation, and mutual respect.
Jai Hind, Vande Mataram!