जनभावना टाइम्स ਇੰਡੀਆ ਡੇਲੀ ਪੰਜਾਬੀ इंडिया डेली लाइव

PM Modi set to match Nehru, Gandhi’s record this Independence Day address

On August 15, 2024, India will unite in celebration of its freedom, from Srinagar and Ladakh to the heart of the nation’s capital. This day sees the tricolour proudly displayed on homes, offices, and public spaces, symbolising the country's sovereignty and unity.

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Edited By: Shantanu Poswal
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PM Narendra Modi

PM Narendra Modi (ANI)

On Thursday, August 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will mark his 11th consecutive Independence Day by hoisting the national flag from the Red Fort. This milestone will make him only the third Prime Minister, following Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, to address the nation on Independence Day for eleven straight years. This year’s speech will hold added significance as it will be Modi’s first Independence Day address in his third term as Prime Minister. With this achievement, he will surpass former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who also hoisted the flag ten times during his tenure from 2004 to 2014. However, Modi still trails behind Nehru and Gandhi, who held the record for 17 and 16 flag-hoisting ceremonies, respectively.

Expectations for the Prime Minister's Speech

The annual address is not only a symbol of national pride but also a platform for the Prime Minister to outline the government's agenda, highlight achievements, and address pressing national and international issues. The theme of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) is anticipated to be a central focus, emphasising the government’s vision for India’s future. Speculation suggests that Modi may also address the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh, particularly the persecution of minority Hindus, a topic that has attracted significant attention from Hindutva groups.

Observers will be keen to see if the Prime Minister announces new initiatives or expands existing welfare programs, especially given the strong opposition's populist promises. Jammu and Kashmir, a frequent topic in Modi's August 15 speeches, may also be highlighted, especially in light of recent security challenges following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.

Modi's Record in Speech Duration

Prime Minister Modi holds the record for the longest Independence Day speeches, averaging 82 minutes—longer than any other Indian Prime Minister. His speeches have ranged from 55 minutes in 2017 to 94 minutes in 2016. Former Prime Minister Inder Kumar Gujral previously had the longest single address, lasting 71 minutes in 1997. Historically, Jawaharlal Nehru's first Independence Day speech in 1947 lasted just 24 minutes, while Indira Gandhi’s longest speech was 54 minutes in 1972.

 

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