79th Independence Day: PM Modi’s 12th Red Fort Speech Today, Major Cities Under Tight Security

National News: India is celebrating its 79th Independence Day with great pride and enthusiasm. The main ceremony is taking place at the Red Fort in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the tricolor and address the nation for the twelfth consecutive time. This sets a new record, surpassing the number of Independence Day addresses made by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Theme of ‘Naya Bharat’

This year’s official theme is "Naya Bharat" (New India), focusing on a vision of a strong, developed, and self-reliant nation. The celebrations also highlight the success of Operation Sindoor, India’s swift military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack. On the eve of Independence Day, senior officers involved in planning and executing this operation were honored for their bravery and leadership.

Unprecedented Security in the Capital

Delhi has been placed under the highest security alert for the occasion. More than 11,000 security personnel and 3,000 traffic police officers have been deployed around the Red Fort and nearby areas. Multiple security checkpoints have been set up, and entry is strictly monitored. Early morning parade rehearsals were conducted to ensure everything runs smoothly during the main event.

Leaders Join in Flag Hoisting

Across Delhi, senior leaders also participated in flag-hoisting ceremonies at their residences. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar began their morning by unfurling the national flag and paying respects to the freedom fighters who fought for India’s independence.

Village Leaders as Special Guests

A unique feature of this year’s celebrations is the invitation of 85 village heads from 26 states and union territories. These sarpanches have been recognized for their contribution to rural transformation and have been given the honor of attending the Red Fort ceremony as special guests.

Symbolic Change in Gujarat

In Gujarat’s Surat, a locality known for the last 60 years as Pakistan Mohalla has been renamed Hindustan Mohalla. The change was announced on Independence Day as a gesture of unity and national pride, resonating with the patriotic mood of the day.

PM’s Message to the Nation

Before arriving at the Red Fort, Prime Minister Modi greeted the nation on X (formerly Twitter). In his message, he wished all citizens a happy Independence Day and expressed hope that the occasion would inspire renewed energy and determination to build a developed India. He ended his post with the words, “Jai Hind!”

A Day of Pride and Reflection

From cultural programs to community gatherings, patriotic songs to flag hoisting ceremonies, the spirit of independence is being celebrated across the nation. The tricolor flies proudly in every corner of the country, reminding citizens not only of the sacrifices made in the past but also of their responsibility to contribute towards the Naya Bharat of the future.