Independence Day: PM Modi hoists national flag for 11th time
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag for the 11th consecutive year on Independence Day, August 15. With this feat, PM Modi has surpassed former PM Manmohan Singh, who hoisted the national flag 10 times from 2004 to 2014. He is now behind only Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, who hoisted the flag 17 and 16 times, respectively.
Theme for this year's celebrations
This year's theme is "Viksit Bharat," or "Developed India," which aligns with the Indian government's objective of transforming the country into a developed country by 2047. Over 6,000 special guests, chosen from various sectors of society, have been invited for this year's celebrations. PM Modi identified farmers, youth, women, and the poor as the "four pillars of a developed India," and they are prominently featured in the guest list.
Where to watch the Independence Day celebrations
The Independence Day celebrations are being live-streamed on the Indian government's official social media sites, PM Modi's YouTube page, and other social media platforms. News networks including Doordarshan also broadcast the event live. All India Radio (AIR) carries the entire ceremony in English with Hindi commentary, while regional Doordarshan and Akashwani stations cover local Independence Day events.
Post-speech events and special guests at Red Fort
After PM Modi's address, a grand parade showcasing India's military prowess, cultural diversity, and technological progress will take place. This year, 161 field functionaries who are implementing various schemes of the Ministry of Women and Child Development have been invited as special guests for the Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort. They will be joined by selected women workers from Anganwadis, Sakhi One-Stop Centres, Sankalp: Hubs for Empowerment of Women, Child Welfare Committees and District Child Protection Units.
