by: NavJeevan

Republic Day 2026: Income Tax Department reaffirms Constitutional values, nation-building role in Chennai

NE NEWS SERVICE
CHENNAI, JAN 26

The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour by the Office of the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Tamil Nadu & Puducherry, at the Income Tax Office Campus, No.121, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai, on Monday.

Dr. D. Sudhakara Rao, IRS, Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (OSD), Chennai, unfurled the National Flag, marking the formal commencement of the celebrations. The occasion was graced by retired senior officers, serving officers, officials of the Income Tax Department and their families, reflecting a strong sense of institutional pride and unity.

  • 77th Republic Day celebrated with solemn flag unfurling, cultural splendour and honours for exceptional service
  • Principal Chief Commissioner highlights Constitution’s guiding spirit, transparent tax regime and vision of Viksit Bharat
  • Officers, staff and families come together as children, artists and achievers take centre stage

Addressing the gathering, Dr. D. Sudhakara Rao reiterated that on this historic day in 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect, guiding the nation’s progress and prosperity. With its adoption, India—one of the world’s most ancient civilizations—emerged as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular and Democratic Republic, anchored in the enduring values of Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity, which form the foundation of the nation’s democratic ethos and good governance.

He emphasised that the Constitution guarantees fundamental rights and welfare to every citizen, while also reminding citizens of their duties and responsibilities towards the nation. The vision and sagacity of the Drafting Committee chaired by the legendary Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar, he noted, continue to guide the citizens, and the spirit of the Constitution, imbued with these foundational principles, has consistently led the country on the path of social justice and the eradication of discrimination.

Highlighting the department’s role in nation-building, Dr. Rao stated that tax administrators—officers and officials—play a vital and meaningful role as the backbone of revenue mobilisation, enabling the government to fund essential public services and infrastructure development. He underlined that the dedication and integrity of officers and officials are the pillars of the tax system, and every decision taken must reflect fairness, transparency and integrity.

Referring to reforms, he observed that the government’s new tax policies aim to simplify and streamline the tax structure, and the rolling out of the new Income Tax Act, 2025, marks another historic milestone. Aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat, he called upon officers and officials to strive continuously for a more transparent and equitable tax regime.

As part of the celebrations, a vibrant cultural programme was organised by the Office of the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Tamil Nadu & Puducherry. Super Singer fame Mani & Band captivated the audience with a soulful performance, followed by cultural presentations by Income Tax employees, who showcased their talents and enthralled the gathering.

Recognising excellence in service, Dr. D. Sudhakara Rao, IRS, Pr. CCIT (OSD), Chennai, felicitated officers and officials by presenting the CBDT Certificate of Exceptional Service 2025, Pr. CCIT Certificate of Meritorious Service 2025, and Pr. CCIT Certificate of Excellence 2025, honouring their outstanding contributions to Direct Tax Administration in the Tamil Nadu & Puducherry region.

The celebrations culminated with certificates and trophies being awarded by Dr. Rao to the children of Income Tax Department employees, who emerged winners in Essay Writing, Speech, Drawing & Painting and Quiz competitions, organised on the themes of ‘Republic Day’ and ‘Patriotism’, adding a joyful and inspiring finale to the national celebration.