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National News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation from the Red Fort for the twelfth consecutive time on Independence Day, creating a new milestone in the country’s history. This makes him the prime minister with the highest number of consecutive speeches from the Red Fort, surpassing former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s record.
Indira Gandhi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort for eleven straight years during her first term, from January 1966 to March 1977. She later served again from January 1980 until October 1984, bringing her total to sixteen Independence Day flag hoistings as Prime Minister. This year’s ceremony will make Modi the second prime minister, after Jawaharlal Nehru, to have delivered the most speeches from the Red Fort.
In his address, the prime minister is expected to emphasize India’s firm approach towards national security and its economic development model. He may also speak about the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, a goal he has highlighted in many past speeches.
Modi has regularly used Independence Day as a platform to unveil new schemes and policy initiatives. He is also likely to address current challenges in international trade, including recent developments related to decisions by US President Donald Trump that have impacted India’s economic and foreign relations.
A major focus of Modi’s governance has been Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). He has called for promoting local manufacturing, using traditional knowledge, and building strong rural industries as a foundation for long-term growth. These themes are expected to feature prominently in his speech this year as well.
This year, 85 village sarpanches from 26 states and union territories will attend the celebrations as special guests. They have been chosen for their remarkable contributions to rural transformation in fields like sanitation, clean drinking water, women’s empowerment, and sustainable governance.
According to the Ministry of Jal Shakti, all selected panchayats have achieved ODF Plus status under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) and have been certified as Har Ghar Jal villages under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Among the notable guests is Prema Devi, the head of Motipur Gram Panchayat in Samastipur, Bihar. Her leadership has transformed the village into a model for waste-to-energy projects and efficient water management, earning national recognition.
As preparations for Independence Day continue, the atmosphere across the country is filled with excitement and patriotism. This year’s event will not only celebrate India’s journey since independence but also highlight the contributions of grassroots leaders. From the Red Fort, Prime Minister Modi’s historic twelfth speech is expected to inspire unity, determination, and hope for a stronger India.