'Salute to the brave soldiers of Operation Sindoor...', PM Modi said from the ramparts of the Red Fort (Social media)
National News: India marked its 79th Independence Day today with celebrations full of energy, pride, and patriotic spirit. From small towns to major cities, the Indian tricolor was seen flying high as citizens came together to honor the country’s freedom and achievements. The central event took place at Delhi’s historic Red Fort, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and delivered his Independence Day speech for the 12th consecutive year.
With this, PM Modi has set a new record, surpassing former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the number of Independence Day addresses from the Red Fort. Only Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, has delivered more.
The theme for this year’s celebrations was ‘New India,’ reflecting the government’s aim to make the country prosperous, self-reliant, and fully developed by 2047, the 100th year of independence. In his speech, PM Modi spoke about India’s progress in infrastructure, technology, defense, and rural development. He also stressed the importance of unity, saying that the nation’s strength lies in its diversity and shared values.
A key highlight of the event was the recognition of ‘Operation Sindoor,’ the military operation conducted after the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year. Senior officers and soldiers who played a role in its planning and execution were honored. Their bravery was celebrated as a symbol of India’s commitment to protecting its people and borders.
The Red Fort event saw the participation of 85 village sarpanches from 26 states and union territories. They were invited as special guests in recognition of their outstanding work in rural development, sanitation, and water management. One of the most notable among them was Prema Devi, the head of Motipur Gram Panchayat in Samastipur, Bihar, known for her leadership in women’s empowerment and community projects.
In addition to the sarpanches, other guests included sportspersons from the Special Olympics 2025, innovators, farmers, and social workers who have made significant contributions to society.
Delhi was placed under heavy security for the occasion. Over 11,000 security personnel, including police and paramilitary forces, were deployed around the Red Fort and key locations. More than 3,000 traffic police officers were stationed to manage road closures and diversions between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. Snipers were positioned on rooftops, and hundreds of CCTV cameras monitored the area to ensure the event’s safety.
Beyond Delhi, celebrations took place across India. In Srinagar’s Lal Chowk, large crowds gathered for flag hoisting and cultural programs. State leaders and ministers held their own Independence Day events, raising the tricolor and addressing citizens about progress in their regions. Schools, community centers, and government offices organized patriotic performances and exhibitions.
PM Modi ended his speech with a message of hope, urging every citizen to contribute to building a developed, secure, and united India. “Let us work together to make our dream of a strong and prosperous India a reality,” he said.
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