Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 78th Independence Day by hoisting the national flag at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. This marks his 11th consecutive year of leading the nations Independence Day celebrations from this iconic venue.The day began under an overcast sky with light drizzle adding to the solemnity of the occasion. Following the hoisting of the Tricolour, the Prime Minister received a Rashtriya Salute. The Punjab Regiment Military Band, comprising one Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) and 25 Other Ranks, played the National Anthem during the ceremony. The band was conducted by Subedar Major Rajinder Singh.PM Modi addresses the nation from Red Fort, he says, Today is the day to pay tributes to the uncountable Azaadi ke deewane who made sacrifices for the nation. This country is indebted to them.(Photo source: PM Modi/YouTube) pic.twitter.com/CoKKawoPLp— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2024Prior to the event, PM Modi took to social media platform X to extend his greetings to the nation, posting, “Independence Day greetings to my fellow Indians. Jai Hind!”Upon his arrival at the Red Fort, PM Modi was welcomed by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane. The Defence Secretary introduced the General Officer Commanding (GoC) Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, who escorted the Prime Minister to the Saluting Base. A combined Inter-Services and Delhi Police Guard then presented a general salute, followed by the Prime Ministers inspection of the Guard of Honour.The Guard of Honour, commanded by Commander Arun Kumar Mehta, included one officer and 24 personnel from the Army, Air Force, and Delhi Police. The Indian Navy, which coordinated this years event, was represented by a contingent led by Lieutenant Commander Gulia Bhavesh NK. Major Arjun Singh led the Army contingent, while Squadron Leader Akshara Uniyal commanded the Air Force contingent. Additional DCP Anurag Dwivedi led the Delhi Police contingent.In an effort to enhance public participation, approximately 6,000 special guests were invited to witness the festivities at Red Fort. As the Prime Minister hoisted the national flag, two Indian Air Force Advanced Light Helicopters Dhruv, piloted by Wing Commanders Amber Agarwal and Rahul Nainwal, showered flower petals over the venue.This years Independence Day theme, Viksit Bharat @ 2047, aims to invigorate the governments commitment to transforming India into a developed nation by 2047.
