Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the iconic Red Fort in New Delhi today, marking India’s 78th Independence Day. This marks the 11th consecutive year that PM Modi has led the celebrations from the historic monument.
Despite overcast skies and a light drizzle in the early morning, the ceremony proceeded as planned. After raising the Tricolour, the Prime Minister received the “Rashtriya Salute” as the Punjab Regiment Military band, conducted by Subedar Major Rajinder Singh, played the National Anthem.
Prior to the event, PM Modi took to social media platform X to greet the nation, saying, “Independence Day greetings to my fellow Indians. Jai Hind!”
The Prime Minister was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane upon arrival. General Officer Commanding (GoC) Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, was introduced to the Prime Minister before conducting him to the Saluting Base.
Following tradition, PM Modi inspected the Guard of Honour, which included contingents from the Army, Air Force, and Delhi Police. The Guard of Honour was commanded by Commander Arun Kumar Mehta, with each service contingent led by its respective officers.
This year’s celebrations centered around the theme “Viksit Bharat @ 2047,” reflecting the government’s vision for a developed India by 2047. Approximately 6,000 special guests were invited to witness the event, including tribal artisans, Van Dhan Vikas members, tribal entrepreneurs, students benefiting from the Atal Innovation Mission and PM SHRI scheme, and volunteers from Mera Yuva Bharat and the National Service Scheme.
In a spectacular display, two Advanced Light Helicopters Dhruv of the Indian Air Force, piloted by Wing Commander Amber Agarwal and Wing Commander Rahul Nainwal, showered flower petals over the venue as the national flag was unfurled.
The Prime Minister then delivered his customary address to the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, outlining his government’s achievements and future plans. Dressed in a white kurta with blue accents and a traditional multicolour safa, Modi’s attire reflected the solemnity and festivity of the occasion.
The presence of the Indian contingent from the recent Paris Olympics added a special touch to this year’s celebrations, highlighting the nation’s sporting achievements on its day of independence. The Indian Navy served as the coordinating service for this year’s event, showcasing the inter-service cooperation that underpins national security.
(Inputs from ANI)