Modi’s Aug 15 greeting hides what's next for India

On August 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored India's freedom fighters during Independence Day, emphasizing their courage, sacrifice, and commitment in ending colonial rule. These ideals continue to inspire India's pursuit of building a Viksit Bharat. During his address at the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort, Modi highlighted that the country's progress across various sectors is being driven by the 140 crore citizens of India. The Prime Minister expressed optimism that this momentum will only intensify in the future.

This year's Independence Day celebrations marked the 150th anniversary of the National Song 'Vande Mataram.' For the first time, the song will be rendered during the ceremony at the Red Fort. Following the hoisting of the Tricolour by the Prime Minister, the flag ceremony will be synchronized with a 21-gun salute by the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial), using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns.

The Army band will then play 'Vande Mataram,' and the audience at the Red Fort will join in singing the song before the National Anthem is played.

As part of the celebrations, the National Flag Guard will present the Rashtriya Salute, and two Mi-17 helicopters of the Indian Air Force will shower flower petals over the venue, with one carrying the National Flag and the other bearing a flag depicting 'Vande Mataram.' Youth from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with the 'My Bharat' volunteers, will participate in the celebrations, forming the words 'Vande Mataram' using their bodies along Gyanpath. View cutters displaying the theme 'Viksit Bharat@2047' will also be installed at Gyanpath.

Modi's 13th consecutive Independence Day address from the Red Fort was met with a Guard of Honour comprising personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police. Following the address, NCC cadets and 'My Bharat' volunteers will sing 'Vande Mataram,' followed by the National Anthem.