New Delhi:India is celebrating its 79th Independence Day today with great fervor and patriotic spirit. The main event was held at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and delivered his 12th consecutive address to the nation. This year’s celebrations are themed “Naya Bharat,” reflecting the government’s vision of achieving a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047, the centenary of India’s independence.
In his speech, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to the freedom fighters and lauded the nation’s progress. He highlighted key achievements and future initiatives, emphasizing self-reliance, national security, and economic reforms. A significant announcement was the launch of “next-generation GST reforms” by Diwali, which he said would provide substantial tax relief to the common man and benefit small and medium enterprises. He also announced a new “Sudarshan Chakra” defence system and a new mission to create powerful weapon systems for national security.
The Prime Minister also took a firm stance on national security, warning that India would not differentiate between terrorists and those who support them. He lauded the armed forces for their actions during “Operation Sindoor,” which he said had set a new normal in dealing with cross-border terrorism. He also addressed the Indus Waters Treaty, stating that “blood and water will not flow together,” and that the treaty had caused harm to Indian farmers.
Ahead of the celebrations, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation, extending her greetings and praising India’s growth. She stated that the country is “well on its way to becoming a self-reliant nation” and is moving ahead with “great confidence.”
The celebrations at the Red Fort included a 21-gun salute, a flypast by Indian Air Force helicopters showering flower petals, and a cultural display. Special guests from various walks of life, including athletes, farmers, and “Swachhta Karamcharis” (cleanliness workers), were invited to witness the event.
