India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day ,on August 15, 2024. This significant milestone honors the nation’s liberation from British colonial rule and pays tribute to the leaders and freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence. This year’s theme, ‘Viksit Bharat,’ reflects the government’s vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. It is officially the 78th observance of India’s Independence Day today.
Today Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi and deliver his eleventh consecutive Independence Day speech. This marks his first address since returning to power for a record-equaling third consecutive term. Modi’s speech, began at 7:30 AM, as is broadcasted live on Doordarshan, and various social media platforms. In his address, PM Modi reflects on India’s achievements, outline future goals, and honor the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. Following his speech, a grand parade showcasing India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and technological advancements. In the evening, important buildings and monuments across the country will be illuminated, contributing to the festive atmosphere of the day. As part of the Independence Day celebrations, the third phase of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign runs from August 9 to 15, 2024. Launched during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav in 2022, this initiative encourages citizens to display the national flag at their homes. This year, the campaign introduces the ‘Tiranga Bike Rally,’ scheduled for August 13. Organized by Members of Parliament, the rally will start from Bharat Mandapam, pass through India Gate, and concluded at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium. Prime Minister Modi has urged citizens to actively participate in the campaign by updating their profile pictures with the Indian flag and sharing selfies on the official campaign website, harghartiranga.com. The celebration also honors the legacy of India’s freedom fighters, whose courageous words and actions shaped the nation’s struggle for independence. Chandra Shekhar Azad, who sacrificed his life rather than be captured by the British, famously declared, ‘We will face the enemy’s bullets, we were free, we will remain free. Bhagat Singh, another iconic figure, asserted, “Life is lived on its own… other’s shoulders are used only at the time of funeral,” and also famously said, “They can kill me, but they cannot kill my ideas. They can crush my body, but they will not be able to crush my soul.” Subhash Chandra Bose, known as Netaji, was famous for his militant approach and socialist policies, with his powerful slogan: “Freedom is not given, it is taken.” Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the civil disobedience movement, emphasized the value of freedom by saying, “Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes,” and asserted, “When the state becomes lawless or corrupt, civil disobedience becomes a sacred duty.” Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who was honored with the title Lokmanya, passionately proclaimed, “Swaraj is my birthright, and I will have it.” These leaders’ enduring words and actions continue to inspire and remind the nation of the hard-won freedom celebrated each year.
Prime Minister Modi’s address is a significant moment in India’s Independence Day celebrations, marking his eleventh consecutive speech from the Red Fort and surpassing former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s record of ten Independence Day addresses. Modi’s speeches are known for their length and depth, with an average duration of 82 minutes, longer than any other Prime Minister’s. As the country celebrates its 78th Independence Day today, the focus is on reflecting on past achievements and envisioning a future as a developed nation by 2047, underlining the enduring spirit of independence and progress.
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