On the occasion of India’s 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi for the 11th consecutive time. Despite the overcast sky and a slight drizzle, the ceremony proceeded smoothly.
Following the flag-hoisting, PM Modi received a ‘Rashtriya Salute’ from the Punjab Regiment Military band. Conducted by Subedar Major Rajinder Singh, the band played the National Anthem during the ceremony.
Before the event, PM Modi took to social media platform X to greet the nation, stating, “Independence Day greetings to my fellow Indians. Jai Hind!” Upon his arrival at the Red Fort, he was welcomed by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane. The Defence Secretary introduced General Officer Commanding (GoC), Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, to the Prime Minister.
The GoC escorted PM Modi to the Saluting Base, where a combined Inter-Services and Delhi Police Guard presented a general salute. PM Modi then inspected the Guard of Honour, which included personnel from the Army, Air Force, and Delhi Police, commanded by Commander Arun Kumar Mehta.
This year’s event saw the Indian Navy coordinating the celebrations. To enhance public participation, approximately 6,000 special guests were invited to witness the celebrations at the Red Fort.
Key Updates and Messages– independence day
- PM Modi’s Address: In his longest Independence Day speech to date, lasting 98 minutes, PM Modi emphasized the need to rid Indian politics of casteism and nepotism. He called for the inclusion of one lakh youth with no political background into politics to foster fresh ideas and capabilities. Modi also advocated for a Uniform Civil Code and a push towards ‘One Nation, One Election’ to streamline governance.
- Chief Minister Updates:
- Puducherry: Chief Minister N Rangasamy hoisted the tricolour and highlighted initiatives such as educational assistance for minority students and plans to strengthen the police department.
- Delhi: Sunita Kejriwal expressed sadness over the national flag not being hoisted at the CM residence due to Arvind Kejriwal’s imprisonment.
- Chhattisgarh: CM Vishnu Deo Sai hoisted the national flag and urged everyone to plant saplings and preserve cultural heritage.
- Other Regional Celebrations:
- Punjab and Haryana celebrated with flag-hoisting ceremonies at various locations, including Jalandhar and Kurukshetra.
- Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav and Goa CM Pramod Sawant also hoisted the national flag in their respective states.
- Google Doodle: In celebration of India’s Independence Day, Google released a Doodle designed by Varindra Javeri, showcasing India’s diverse architectural heritage.
- Security and Peace: Inspector General (IG) Border Security Force (BSF) Jammu, DK Boora, assured the safety of the borders amidst recent tensions.
This year’s Independence Day celebrations reflected a blend of tradition and modern aspirations, reinforcing India’s commitment to progress and unity.
