Why was India not a Republic in 1947 instead of 1950?

March,1946 - British agreed to give Independence to India. Dec,1946 - Indians started creating Indian Constitution. Feb,1947 - British said they will leave India by June 1948. read more

15 August, 1947- India became Independent but still was following rules framed by British and British Queen was the head of the state since Indian Constitution was not yet ready. 26 November, 1949 - Indian Constitution was completed and was adopted. 26 January, 1950 - Indian Constitution came into effect. read more

The history of the Republic of India begins on 26 January 1950. The country became an independent nation within the British Commonwealth on 15 August 1947. Concurrently the Muslim-majority northwest and east of British India was separated into the Dominion of Pakistan, by the partition of India. read more

Since Jan-26 was a date associated with national sentiments (Purna Swaraj) but could not be celebrated as Independence Day (since Lord Mountbatten transferred power on 15-Aug-1947 instead of 26-Jan-1948), it was then decided to bring the Constitution (which was ready in 1950) to force on 26-Jan-1950 in order to continue observing it as a day of national importance. read more