New Delhi, Jan. 25 -- Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday extended greetings on the occasion of Republic Day, saying the day symbolises not only the adoption of the Constitution but also India's democratic values, national unity and faith in the power of the people.

In a message issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, Birla said that January 26 marks 77 years since India became a sovereign and democratic republic in 1950. He said the Constitution provides the framework of governance and guarantees citizens the rights of equality, freedom and justice, calling it the soul of the nation that binds India's diversity into one thread.

"On the auspicious occasion of the 77th Republic Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to al...