On the eve of the 77th Republic Day, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu interacted with beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi scheme and construction workers associated with landmark national projects such as Kartavya Path and Kartavya Bhawan, who have been invited as Special Guests to attend the Republic Day 2026 celebrations.
The interaction was also attended by Srinivas Katithikala, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, along with senior officials of the Ministry. The engagement reflected the Government’s continued emphasis on inclusive, people-centric urban development and effective last-mile delivery under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
During the interaction, street vendors and construction workers shared firsthand accounts of how government interventions have improved their livelihoods, expanded access to institutional finance, enhanced social security and dignity, and enabled them to participate more fully in India’s growth journey. Beneficiaries highlighted the role of policy support in stabilising incomes and providing confidence to plan for the future.
Addressing the gathering, 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 placed 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 the PM SVANidhi scheme, the Minister said it is not merely a credit programme but a mission aimed at dignity, self-reliance and empowerment of street vendors. He informed that more than one crore loans have been disbursed under the scheme, helping vendors stabilise their businesses and improve household incomes. He added that the widespread adoption of QR-based transactions and digital payments among beneficiaries reflects their growing integration into the formal financial ecosystem.
The Minister further noted that the extension of PM SVANidhi till March 2030 underscores the Government’s long-term commitment to empowering every street vendor. He also referred to the recent introduction of credit cards with a limit of up to ₹30,000 for PM SVANidhi beneficiaries, which is expected to further strengthen access to affordable institutional credit.
Paying tribute to construction workers, Tokhan Sahu said that iconic projects such as Central Vista, Kartavya Path and Kartavya Bhawan are not merely physical 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 the Government’s commitment to their welfare, respect and recognition.
Welcoming the Special Guests, Srinivas Katithikala extended greetings on the occasion of the forthcoming Republic Day. He recalled that India attained Independence in 1947 and adopted the Constitution in 1950, becoming a Republic where supreme power rests with the people. He emphasised that witnessing the Republic Day Parade in the august presence of the Hon’ble President of India would be a proud and memorable moment, celebrating the country’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, the Special Guests visited the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya as part of the official programme.
