Independence Day 2026: Who Are the Real VIPs at Red Fort on August 15? From Women Entrepreneurs to Street Vendors

A different kind of VIP list

The Red Fort ceremony is traditionally associated with the Prime Minister, ministers, military commanders and other senior dignitaries. In 2026, however, the government has given considerable space to people from different sections of society. Around 5,000 special guests have been invited to watch the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort.

Women entrepreneurs get a place at the Red Fort

Women entrepreneurs supported under the PM Mudra Yojana are among the special guests invited this year. Their presence at the national ceremony brings attention to the growing role of women in entrepreneurship.

Street vendors among the special guests

Vendors supported through the PM SVANidhi scheme have been invited to the Red Fort celebrations. Their inclusion is significant because their work is closely linked to everyday urban life.

Sanitation workers in the spotlight

Urban sanitation workers under the Swachh Bharat Mission are another important group on the special guest list. Their work is often carried out early in the morning and away from the spotlight. Yet clean roads, public spaces and neighbourhoods depend heavily on them.

Metro workers and Central Vista staff

The list also includes the best-performing Delhi Metro workers and workers associated with Kartavya Path and Central Vista. For Delhi residents, the Metro is an essential part of daily life. Thousands of commuters depend on it to travel across the capital every day.

Young innovators and scientists

Youth will have a prominent role in this years Independence Day programme. Young innovators associated with national innovation programmes, along with leading innovators and scientists from different fields, have been invited as special guests.

Start-up founders and young professionals

The special guest list includes high-performing start-ups supported under government schemes, as well as start-ups backed through the Start-up India Seed Fund. Best-performing interns under the Prime Minister Internship Scheme and young people trained under the PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana will also attend.

Farmers, artisans and workers from different sectors

The guest list includes high-performing beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana and artisans covered under the PM Vishwakarma scheme. Beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan scheme will also be present.

Students and volunteers get a special role

Students from Delhi government schools who performed well in quizzes and competitions will also attend the ceremony. Around 600 winners of competitions conducted ahead of Independence Day are expected to be part of the celebrations.