India became a Republic on

Question

India became a Republic on

1. A. 15th August 1947
2. B. 26th January 1950 (Correct answer)
3. C. 15th August 1950
4. D. 26th January 1947

Correct Answer

Option B — 26th January 1950

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is 26th January 1950.

Key Points

• The Constitution of India came into force on 26 January 1950, the day India became a sovereign democratic republic.
• The date was chosen to honour 26 January 1930, when the Indian National Congress declared Purna Swaraj (complete independence) at its Lahore session.
• 15 August 1947 marks Independence Day, when India became a dominion — not a republic.
• The Constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26 November 1949 and enforced two months later.

Additional Information

• Two dates are commonly confused and both are asked:
  • 26 November 1949 — the Constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly, now marked as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas)
  • 26 January 1950 — the Constitution came into force, marked as Republic Day
• The 1950 date deliberately echoes 26 January 1930, when the Indian National Congress declared Purna Swaraj (complete independence).
• Dr. Rajendra Prasad took office as the first President on that day, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee.