Minute-by-minute of August 15: What exactly happens at Red Fort on Independence Day

As India commemorates its 80th Independence Day on August 15, the Red Fort in New Delhi takes center stage for the official ceremony, which is broadcasted live worldwide. This year, the event marks 79 years since India gained freedom from British rule in 1947. The ceremony is meticulously planned and executed, reflecting the significance of the day.

Security arrangements are made well in advance, with multi-layered cordons surrounding the Red Fort area on the morning of the ceremony. The Prime Minister arrives early, accompanied by Union ministers and senior officials. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister is greeted by the Union ministers and senior officials, who form the Union ministry and security personnel, ready for the event.

The ceremony commences with the presentation of a Guard of Honour by the Armed Forces and the Delhi Police to the Prime Minister, symbolizing the nation's respect for its leaders. The official proceedings then shift to the hoisting of the national flag. The Prime Minister pulls the ceremonial cord, raising the Indian flag high above the fort. The military band then plays 'Jana Gana Mana', followed by a 21-gun salute, signifying the nation's respect and honor.

The National Song, Vande Mataram, also takes a special place in the proceedings. This year, for the first time, the song will be sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort. The ceremony concludes with the Prime Minister delivering his Independence Day address, where he pays tribute to the sacrifices of freedom fighters, reviews the past year's achievements, and announces policy initiatives and future goals for the nation.

This year, the ceremony will also commemorate Yuva Shakti, acknowledging the youth's contribution to building a Viksit Bharat (developed India) by 2047. Additionally, an Mi-17 helicopter of the Indian Air Force will carry a banner commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram, showering flower petals over the people at the Red Fort.