Prime Minister Addresses Nation from Red Fort; ‘Vande Mataram’ Rendered for the First Time
NEW DELHI, AUGUST 15: India today celebrated its 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi and hoisted the National Flag before addressing the nation from the ramparts of the iconic monument.
A historic moment marked this year’s Independence Day celebrations as ‘Vande Mataram’ was rendered in full for the first time at the Red Fort during the Independence Day ceremony. It was followed by the National Anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana’.
The ceremonial hoisting of the National Flag was accorded a 21-gun salute. Two Mi-17 helicopters of the Indian Air Force also carried out a flower shower over the ceremony venue.
This year’s celebrations placed special emphasis on ‘Yuva Shakti’ (youth power), highlighting the contribution of India’s young generation towards building a developed India by 2047.
Prime Minister Addresses the Nation
Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the historic significance of ‘Vande Mataram’ and described its rendition at the Red Fort as a landmark moment.
In his address, the Prime Minister spoke on several key issues concerning the country, including India’s development journey, national security, self-reliance, the role of youth and the goal of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The Prime Minister also referred to the severe floods and landslides reported in several parts of the country. He expressed his condolences to the families affected by the natural disasters and conveyed solidarity with those facing the difficult situation.
Focus on Viksit Bharat @2047
The Independence Day celebrations this year placed considerable emphasis on India’s future and the role of its young population. The vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 seeks to build a developed India by the centenary of independence.
Prime Minister’s Independence Day address from the Red Fort remains one of the most significant features of the national celebrations. Across the country, the occasion was marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural programmes and patriotic events.
The rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ at the Red Fort for the first time during the Independence Day ceremony emerged as one of the defining moments of this year’s celebrations.