PM Modi’s 90-minute speech longest ever for any Prime Minister so far
A U.S. Congressional delegation attended the celebrations at the Red Fort
New Delhi: Thousands flocked to the Red Fort in New Delhi on a humid but breezy Tuesday morning as Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his tenth consecutive address to the nation on India’s 77th Independence Day.
Assisted by Major Nikita Nair and Major Jasmine Kaur, the PM Modi unfurled the tricolour, which was followed by a 21-gun salute from the gunners of the elite 8711 Field Battery synchronized with the national anthem, played by the Army Band.
PM Modi in his address said that the situation in Manipur is improving. He said, “India stands with the people of Manipur”. In his speech, PM Modi also said that the era of serial blasts is over and the country is seeing a drop in terror attacks. The event marked the culmination of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, which were initiated in 2021 to mark the milestone of 75 years of Independence.
Over 20,000 flock to Red Fort amid heavy security while more than 1,800 special invitees of the PM attend the ceremony. The attendance at this year’s celebration crossed pre-pandemic levels. Approximately 1,800 special invitees of the PM Modi included contingents of Central Vista construction workers, village leaders, fishing folks, teachers, and farmers. Parts of the PM’s speech elicited loud cheering from the crowds, especially as he touched upon the topics of youth and women empowerment.
In the virtual world, the occasion was brought to life through a vibrant and symbolic Google Doodle, created by New Delhi-based guest artist, Namrata Kumar. Throughout the country, schools and neighborhoods came alive with cultural programs. These events weaved together traditional performances, plays, and competitions, engaging children and adults alike in the rich tapestry of India’s heritage.
World leaders extended their wishes as India celebrated its 77th Independence Day with French President Emmanuel Macron saying New Delhi can count on France as a ‘trusted friend’. Macron referred to PM Modi’s visit to Paris last month while congratulating Indians on the 77th Independence Day. In a post on X, he said the two set new Indo-French ambitions all the way to 2047, the centenary year of India’s Independence.
This year, the theme for Independence Day was “Nation First, Always First”
In Washington, as the Biden administration joined Indian Americans in celebrating India’s 77th Independence Day, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the bilateral relationship between the United States and India is deeper and more expansive than ever.
In its Independence Day message, the state department said the two countries were working together to build a brighter future for all. “Happy Independence Day, India! As we celebrate with the people of India, we reflect on the bond between our two nations and the inspiring words in both of our Constitutions: We the People.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a congratulatory message to President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi saying, “Your country has achieved universally acknowledged success in economic, scientific and technical, social and other fields. India enjoys well-earned respect on the world arena and plays an important constructive role in international affairs”.
Upcoming G-20 summit gilds Independence Day celebrations
