On August 15, 2024, India marked its 78th Independence Day with grandeur, reflecting on its journey from colonial rule to becoming one of the world’s leading democracies.
The day began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisting the national flag at the historic Red Fort in Delhi, a tradition that symbolizes the nation’s unity and sovereignty.
The Prime Minister’s Address
In his 11th consecutive Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined a vision for ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047,’ aiming to transform India into a developed nation by its centennial of independence. Here are some key points from Mr. Modi’s speech.
- Secular Civil Code: PM Modi emphasized the need for a uniform civil code, suggesting it as a step towardseliminating discrimination based on religion, aligning with his government’s push towards national integration.
- Global Standards in Design and Production: He urged for a shift towards “design in India, design for the world,” highlighting the importance of aligning Indian products with international standards, thereby promoting economic self-reliance and global competitiveness.
- Space Sector Dynamism: Modi praised the growth in India’s space sector, noting the increasing role of private companies and startups, which signifies a new era of space exploration and utilization.
- Support for Neighboring Countries: Reflecting on regional diplomacy, he expressed India’s commitment to peace and prosperity in South Asia, citing the support for Bangladesh’s journey towards development.
- Youth and Education: The PM called for an awakening of the ‘Nalanda spirit’ in education, advocating for a return to India’s historical role as a global center of learning.
This year also saw significant public involvement, with around 6,000 special guests attending the Red Fort event, including field functionaries from various government schemes.
Enhanced security measures were in place, with over 10,000 police personnel deployed in Delhi alone, alongside modern security technologies like facial recognition.
Cultural and Military Display
The day was marked by cultural performances, military parades, and the traditional showering of flower petals by helicopters, symbolizing peace and prosperity.