Independence Day highlights: Punishment given for crimes against women should be publicised, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked several world leaders for their wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day. 

PM Modi in a tweet on X, thanked French President Emmanuel Macron and said their interactions over the years have added great strength to the ties between two countries.

Delhi Home Minister Kailash Gahlot, who hoisted the national flag at the Chhatrasal stadium here on the Independence Day, hailed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as a “freedom fighter” who has been “punished” for working for people.

He said, “Arvind Kejriwal is a modern day freedom fighter because he accepted the punishment to work for the people of Delhi by going to jail, but did not bow down or break in front of the anti-democratic forces,”. 

- PTI

Nearly 1,000 people of Indian heritage gathered at the High Commission of India in London to celebrate the 78th Independence Day, with music, dance, and patriotic chants.

Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, marked the beginning of the event by unfurling the tricolour followed by the National Anthem echoing across India House in Aldwych.

He then read excerpts from President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day, a custom at the annual festive gathering.

- PTI

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was taken aback when he learned that the “oldest” resident of a Dalit settlement, introduced to him near Patna, was several years junior to him.

After hoisting the tricolour at the historic Gandhi Maidan, he visited a ‘Mahadalit Tola’, a practice he has maintained on Independence Day for years.

As per custom, the flag was hoisted by one Ramashish Ram, the oldest resident of Mahadalit Tola in Danapur on the outskirts of the State capital.

During his speech, Mr. Kumar turned towards Mr. Ram and asked him how old he was. “You are just 69? Then why do you look so haggard? Look at me I am 74”, exclaimed Mr. Kumar.

He also advised him to get physically active, saying “Look at me. Nobody can guess my age, given the robustness of my physical health”.

- PTI

The ‘At Home’ cum Governor’s Award for distinction in the field of Art, Music, and Literature was held at Dr. Imkongliba Ao Hall in Raj Bhavan on Independence Day.

Governor La. Ganesan said, “vision for a ‘Viksit Bharat’ - a developed India - is within our grasp. It is an India where every citizen, irrespective of their background, has the opportunity to thrive.”

- ANI

Professor Mohammad Shakeel, Officiating Vice-Chancellor and the Chief Guest of the function, hoisted the National Flag at the school assembly premises of Jamia Senior Secondary School (JSSS) of the university. 

Mr. Shakeel said, “Indian and social values have always been promoted in JMI. Students coming from other countries also get engrossed in this fragrant institution.” 

- ANI

Former President Ram Nath Kovind extended his greetings to the nation on the 78th Independence Day and urged citizens to continue contributing towards making India a ‘Viksit Bharat.’

Former President Kovind said, “I appeal to everyone to keep giving your participation to make this country ‘Viksit Bharat.”

- ANI

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced that recruitments for 35,000 posts will be completed by October this year.

He said, “The recruitment process is underway for 35,000 posts including excise constable, constable, assistant professor, and women supervisors through Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission, which will be completed by October 2024,”. 

Mr. Soren said that the government has also initiated an ambitious Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana (JMMSY), under which women in the age group of 21 to 50 years will be provided financial assistance of ₹1,000 per month.

The Indian Embassy in Nepal disbursed dues worth Nepali rupees 55 million to the widows and next of kin of deceased Gorkha soldiers who served in the Indian Armed Forces. 

India’s Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava, who at the ceremony, apart from dues, also handed over Nepali rupees 125.5 million, covering benefits under the Army Group Insurance (AGI) programme, to the widows and next of kin of 107 deceased members of the Indian Armed Forces.

“The Nepali rupees 125.5 million payment under the AGI programme included death-in-service benefits, extended insurance benefits, and AGI maturity payments for 2024,” an Indian Embassy statement said.

- PTI

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed regret that the principles and ideals that guided the freedom struggle and are enshrined in the Constitution are now under attack from sectarian political forces.

“We remain committed to dedicate our lives to keep India’s tradition of sovereignty, secularism, and diverse heritage intact,” she pledged.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said he has vowed not to rest until he makes Uttarakhand the country’s best and an entirely self-reliant State.

Mr. Dhami also highlighted the implementation of crucial laws in the State. He said, “We are the first state in the country to draft a Uniform Civil Code and also the first to introduce the unique concept of Gross Environment Product (GEP),”. 

Listing his achievements, he spoke about introducing the country’s strictest anti-copying law and also a stringent anti-conversion law besides granting 30% horizontal reservation to women of Uttarakhand in government services. 

- PTI

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann gave a clarion to people for launching a crusade to check environmental pollution and preserve natural resources.

“We have to launch a mass movement for safeguarding our environment so that it can be saved for our coming generations,” said Mr. Mann.

-PTI

French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin were among the world leaders who greeted India’s leadership and the people of India as the country celebrated its 78th Independence Day on Thursday.

While most of the leaders from the South Asian neighbouring countries invoked enduring friendship rooted in history and strengthening of bilateral relations when they greeted their counterparts, presidents and prime ministers from other regions spoke about strategic ties and regional ethos.

French President Macron, in his message on X said, he remembers the warm welcome during his visit to India in January and that he is looking forward to “working with my friend @NarendraModi on achieving the ambitious goals we have set for our strategic partnership.” Russian President Putin sent a message of greetings to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of India’s Independence Day. “We attach great importance to the relations of a particularly privileged strategic partnership with India. I am confident that the consistent implementation of the agreements reached following our recent talks in Moscow will contribute to the further development of multifaceted Russian-Indian cooperation,” Putin said in a statement.

According to the Russian president, this undoubtedly meets the interests of the friendly peoples of the two countries and is in line with the consolidation of security and international stability. 

PTI

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, on Thursday hoisted the national flag on the 78th Independence Day in Aizawl and extended his heartfelt greetings to all the people of Mizoram and the Zo ethnic communities living outside the State. 

He also expressed deep gratitude and reverence for the selfless freedom fighters who dedicated their lives and services to the nation.

He said that their unrelenting toil and ideals have ensured us to become proud citizens of a vibrant and secular democracy respected globally.

ANI

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar hoisted the national flag at police headquarters and extended his greetings to the police personnel of the state and their families on the occasion of 78th Independence Day.He highlighted the efforts of the state police to ensure a secure Uttar Pradesh.

“Greetings to every individual who holds faith in India on this special day. Independence Day greetings to the police personnel of Uttar Pradesh and their families as well,” the DGP, Uttar Pradesh, said.

He said, “The officers of the Uttar Pradesh Police have risked their lives to provide security in challenging situations. On this occasion, all the police personnel of Uttar Pradesh are being honoured today.”

ANI

The Chhattisgarh government was working on a war footing to set up new security camps in the Naxalite-hit areas of the state with an aim to end the menace and ensure basic facilities to people living there, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday.

In the last eight months of the BJP government in the state, 146 Naxalites were gunned down by brave security personnel in the state as a result of which people of the region have been feeling safe after several years, he said.

In his Independence Day address to the state at the Police Parade grounds in state capital Raipur, Sai also said his government was preparing a new industrial policy for the state to accelerate growth by providing employment to the youth on a large scale.

He said Chhattisgarh has been delivering a key role in fulfilling the resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make India develop by 2047. 

PTI

An all-women unit of the Border Security Force (BSF) made a maiden gesture and handed over sweets and exchanged greetings with lady BGB personnel of Bangladesh at the front in West Bengal as part of the traditional Independence Day celebrations held along the international border.

The first-ever women border guards exchange took place near the Gede border post of the BSF in the said district even as a “high alert” continues all along this over 4,000 km front following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government less than a week back. 

The six-member BSF team, dressed in ceremonial regalia, belonged to the 32nd battalion of the force deployed in the area to guard the international boundary in Nadia district. The personnel are of the constable rank, officials told PTI.

PTI

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Thursday participated in the Independence Day celebrations and hoisted the national flag in the by-poll bound Channapatna, a move that is being seen with political connotations. 

Mr. Shivakumar, who is also the State Congress chief, is neither the MLA representing Channapatna nor the in-charge Minister of Ramanagara district, which was recently renamed Bengaluru South, under which Channapatna taluk comes. 

The Deputy CM, who participated in the Independence Day celebrations in Channapatna for the first time, has dropped enough hints in recent times that he may contest the by-poll from the segment. 

PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the Indian Olympic contingent at his residence on Thursday. 

The ones who were present included the men’s hockey team led by Harmanpreet Singh, who won a bronze medal. Manu Bhaker who won two medals in shooting, Aman Sehrawat (bronze in 57kg freestyle), Swapnil Kusale (50m rifle 3 positions event), Sarabjot Singh (10m air pistol mixed team with Manu). 

Shuttler Lakshya Sen and other participants were also present. 

Opposition leaders on Thursday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his Independence Day speech, alleging that it failed to unite and inspire people or address important issues faced by the nation.

Communist Party of India General Secretary D. Raja said the prime minister’s speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort on India’s 78th Independence Day did not place any issue before the nation to unite and inspire people.

“Whatever he spoke is in line with the sinister, divisive agenda of RSS,” Mr. Raja said. 

National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW) General Secretary and CPI leader Annie Raja also slammed the Prime Minister and questioned the idea of a ‘One Nation One Election’.

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Manoj Jha said the Prime Minister has not realised that there is only one PM in the country, and those who voted for the opposition do not have a separate PM. 

PTI

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi greeted people on the 78th Independence Day and said “freedom is our biggest protective shield”.

Wishing people on Independence Day, Mr. Gandhi said, “For us, freedom is not just a word – it is our biggest protective shield, rooted in constitutional and democratic values.” It is the power of expression, the ability to speak the truth and the hope to fulfil dreams, the former Congress chief said in a post on X.

Mr. Gandhi attended the Independence Day event at the Red Fort and later also participated in the flag hoisting ceremony at the AICC headquarters.

On the occasion of Independence Day, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha hoisted the national flag at his residence in Agartala Tripura. CM Manik Shah remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of the country.

CM Shah said, “We celebrated the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign in the state... We remembered and honoured all those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and independence of the country”

CM also congratulated the Police and Home Guard personnel from Tripura, who received the President’s Medal for Meritorious Service. He congratulated the personnel in a Facebook post.

During the Independence Day celebrations, a cultural program was also conducted at the Assam Rifles ground, Agartala. The colourful cultural event organized by the School Education department reflected the true spirit of patriotism. The event featured a dance drama promoting drug-free Tripura, mesmerizing dance performances showcasing the state’s rich Janajati culture & a wonderful yoga session.

- ANI

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma hoisted the national flag on the 78th Independence Day in Aizawl and extended his heartfelt greetings to all the people of Mizoram and the Zo ethnic communities living outside the state.

He also expressed deep gratitude and reverence for the selfless freedom fighters who dedicated their lives and services to the nation.

He said that their unrelenting toil and ideals have ensured us to become proud citizens of a vibrant and secular democracy respected globally. CM Lalduhoma reaffirmed that his administration consistently prioritizes “Mizoram first” in every policy, striving to meet the expectations, aspirations, and hopes of the people.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to delivering inclusive governance and development, ensuring greater transparency and accountability, and providing a people-centric administration with improved public service delivery.

- ANI

Communist Party of India (Marxist) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury greeted the public on Independence Day, terming it an occasion to recall the courage and sacrifice of our freedom fighters and reaffirm our pledge to live up to these values.

“Greetings on Independence Day! Gaining our freedom and liberty is not only the occasion to recollect the courage, valour and sacrifices of our freedom fighter,” Mr. Yechury said in a post on X.

“...Not only to hail the vision of a modern inclusive India, but to reaffirm our pledge to live up to these values where every Indian irrespective of caste, creed, gender, colour and all other diversities are equal with justice delivered to all,” he said.

National flag was also hoisted at the CPI(M) office in New Delhi. — PTI

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said his government has resolved to take up the State’s contribution in the country’s economy to 5% from the present 4% in the next five years.

Addressing the main function of the 78th Independence Day after unfurling tricolour at the Lal Parade Ground in Bhopal, he also announced that starting November 1 this year, four missions will be launched in the State for the development of youth, women, farmers and poor.

“Bharat has carved its niche in the world under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the last decade, the country has made strides. Under his leadership, the country is developing fast and becoming powerful,” Mr. Yadav said.

“Bharat is marching ahead to achieve the target of becoming the world’s third economy. The state has resolved to raise its contribution in the country’s economy from four per cent to five per cent in the next five years,” he said.

The State Government is working towards doubling the State budget in the next five years, he added.

“Our youth needs to have access to artificial intelligence and new technologies apart from traditional knowledge. For this, we have invested ₹485 crore. Under it, one college each in 55 districts of the State has been turned into PM College of Excellence,” the CM said. — PTI

Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu extended Independence Day greetings to the people of the state.

The Governor said Independence Day is a day of remembrance as well as dedication. The sacrifices of great freedom fighters paved the way for all of us to enjoy the fruits of freedom. “It is a day of rededication to the noble ideals of truth, non-violence, peace, solidarity and brotherhood that inspired our national struggle for freedom,” said Mr. Nazeer in a press release from the Raj Bhavan.

He called on people to rededicate themselves to the cause of nation building to achieve a developed country by 2047. The Chief Minister said people are enjoying the fruits of freedom brought forth by the sacrifices of several eminent people.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the future of the State is “not secure” as the population balance between Hindus and Muslims is declining fast.

Hoisting the tricolour Guwahati, Mr. Sarma also said that the indigenous people have gone in a defensive mode due to demographic change in Assam as “we are a minority in 12-13 districts”.

“The future of Assam is not secure for us. The Hindu-Muslim population balance is declining fast. The Muslim population in 2021 rose to 41%, while the Hindus were down to 57%. The rest is shared by Christians and other communities,” he claimed.

“In such a crisis phase, I am trying to bring back the population balance. I request all Hindus, Muslims and others to follow the family planning norms. We should be aware against polygamy by all sections of the society,” he added.

“In 12-13 districts, we have become a minority. If there is no strong state government, the indigenous people feel danger at every step.

“I am not the sunlight, but will stand like a candle of hope to protect the interest of indigenous people till my last breath,” he added. — PTI

Punjab and Haryana and the States’ common capital Chandigarh celebrated Independence Day amid tight security.

Punjab Governor and Union Territory Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria hoisted the national flag in Chandigarh, while Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya unfurled the flag at an event in Yamunanagar.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann hoisted the national flag in Jalandhar and his Haryana counterpart Nayab Singh Saini unfurled the tricolour in Kurukshetra.

At Guru Gobind Singh stadium in Jalandhar, Mr. Mann inspected the parade and took a salute from the march past. 

Delivering his speech on the occasion of 78th Independence Day, Mr. Mann recalled the contribution of martyrs, including freedom fighter Bhagat Singh. Mr. Mann said his government was setting up a 150-km Malwa canal which will cater to the irrigational needs of nearly 2 lakh acres in the southern part of the state. He said this is the first ever canal, which is being set up in the State in the post-independence era.

Haryana CM Saini in Kurukshetra remembered freedom fighters for their role in the country’s Independence. — PTI

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hoisted the tricolour at Red Road in Kolkata on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day.

Ms. Banerjee also awarded medals to four IPS officers for their outstanding services to the nation.

She inspected the march past of different regiments of Army and police on the occasion. Colourful tableaux showcasing achievements of various State Government departments and its key projects, besides song and dance of children of various schools, were the highlights of the day.

“Happy Independence Day to all my brothers and sisters!” she said in a post on X. “Our freedom fighters sacrificed everything to earn this freedom. On this historic day, I pay my deepest respect to them for their selfless love for the motherland,” she said. — PTI

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his wishes to the state’s people on the country’s 78th Independence Day. He said, “building an India of the dreams of the martyrs is a top priority”.

In a post on ‘X’, he called upon people to build a developed and self-reliant India. “Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to the people of the state on 78th Independence Day!” Adityanath said in the post in Hindi.

“Millions of salute to all those who sacrificed themselves for the independence of Mother India. Building an India of the dreams of our immortal martyrs is the top priority for all of us,” he said. “On this auspicious day, let us all resolve to build ‘One India-Great India, Developed India-Self-reliant India’. Vande Mataram, Jai Hind.” he added.

Kerala Chief Minister, during the Independence Day address, said that India still struggles to predict natural disasters effectively enough to safeguard human lives and property despite significant advancement in scientific knowledge and discovery.

He noted that the country lacks a robust mechanism for providing definitive warnings about natural calamities, even in the 21st century

Mr. Vijayan highlighted a growing concern that general scientific awareness is being undermined, leading to a resurgence of superstitions, harmful customs, and outdated practices. 

Read More:

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlights challenges in disaster prediction and scientific awareness during Independence Day address

India struggles to predict natural disasters effectively, lacking a robust mechanism for definitive warnings, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan says.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said that recruitments on 35,000 posts will be completed by October this year, while addressing the 78th Independence Day at Ranchi’s Morabadi Ground.

“Our government’s first priority is to link youths of the state with employment,” he said. The CM claimed that his government has made thousands of recruitments during its tenure.

“The recruitment process is underway on 35,000 posts including excise constable, constable, assistant professor and women supervisors through Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission, which will be completed by October 2024,” he said.

- PTI

The tallest flag in North-East India was hoisted at the INA headquarters complex at Moirang in Manipur’s Bishnupur district on the occasion of the country’s 78th Independence Day.

Indian National Army (INA) soldiers in 1944 had hoisted its flag for the first time in Moirang on Indian soil.

“Today, we proudly witness the unfurling of the tricolour at the historic INA headquarters in Moirang, Bishnupur district. The flag flies high atop the 165 ft tall flagpole, the tallest in North-East India, symbolizing our nation’s pride and glory. The INA headquarters, established by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, holds great historical importance. On April 14, 1944, the Indian National Army (INA) first hoisted the tricolour here, marking a pivotal moment in our struggle for independence,” Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said on X.

“As we celebrate Har Ghar Tiranga, let us remember and honour the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters and the enduring legacy of India’s Freedom Struggle,” Mr. Singh said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said laws that perpetuate religious divisions have no place in modern society. He calls for a ‘secular civil code’ and ‘one nation one election’.

PM Narendra Modi in his speech said a “secular civil code” is the need of the hour as the existing set of laws as “communal civil code” and discriminatory.

Read More:

PM Modi calls for secular civil code, says existing laws discriminatory

Prime Minister Modi advocates for a secular civil code to replace the existing communal laws for equality and unity.

PM Modi has begun the 78th Independence Day celebration by hoisting the Indian flag. After his 11th Independence Day address, he interacted with the guests. 

See the video:

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong pitch for ‘one nation, one election’ and urged political parties to come forward to realise the dream while contending that frequent polls were creating hurdles in the nation’s progress.

Addressing the nation on the 78th Independence Day, he said extensive consultations have been held across the country on the issue and all political parties have given their views while a committee has submitted an excellent report.

“Frequent elections are creating hurdles in the progress of the nation. It has become easy to link any scheme/initiative with elections. There are elections somewhere every three to six months. Every work is linked to elections,” Modi said from the ramparts of the Red Fort. “The nation has to come forward for one nation, one election,” he added.

‘One nation, one election’ is one of the key promises made by the BJP in its manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections.

- PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Independence Day address, reiterated his commitment to work three times the speed to achieve the goals of Viksit Bharat by 2047 and called the countrymen to join in making a 24X7 commitment for 2047.

While addressing the nation on Independence Day, PM Modi emphasised making India the third-largest economy in his third term.

“This is India’s golden era. 2047 is awaiting our Viksit Bharat. Defeating the obstacles and challenges, this committee to go ahead with a new resolution...I had said earlier too that in my third term, the country would become the third-largest economy and I would work at three times the speed. So that the dreams of the country are realised at the earliest. I’m not afraid of challenges because I live for my country, countrymen. So let’s join in 24X7 for 2047 commitment to fulfil the dreams of our ancestors...” he said.

“We should not let this opportunity go. We will then achieve the goals of Viksit Bharat by 2047,” he added.

- ANI

During his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that it is India’s dream to host the 2036 Olympics.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has already taken the first step towards hosting the Olympics in 2036 by initiating the dialogue process with the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Future Host Commission (FHC).

“Today, we also have with us the youth who made the Indian flag fly high in the Olympics. On behalf of 140 crore countrymen, I congratulate all our athletes and players... In the next few days, a huge contingent of India will leave for Paris to participate in the Paralympics. I extend best wishes to all our Paralympians... It is the dream of India to host the 2036 Olympics, we are making preparations for that...,” PM Modi said.

- ANI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his Independence Day address many global companies want to invest in India and asked the state governments to compete among themselves to attract them.

“It’s a golden opportunity” to make India a hub of global manufacturing, he said, and called upon state governments to make polices to attract investment, while ensuring good governance and law and order.

PM Modi also said the country needs to work on “Design In India” and “Design for the World”.

In sync with the Industry 4.0 revolution, the PM said the government’s focus is on comprehensive skill development, spanning every sector, from agriculture to sanitation.

Through ‘Skil India’ programme, India has ignited growth and a new momentum, he added. “Vocal for Local” has become the mantra of India’s Arthatantra (economy), he further said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is meeting the guests gathered in the Red Fort for the Independence Day celebration.

He moved towards the guests after his Independence Day address. He is walking towards different corners of the open auditorium.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day address said there is a need to widely publicise punishments given for atrocities against women, so that there is a fear of consequence.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort on 78th Independence Day, Mr. Modi said his government has worked on a “women-led development model,” but he was still concerned over incidents of rape and violence against women.

The Prime Minister said there is anger among people against such incidents.

“Today from the Red Fort, I want to express my pain. As a society, we will have to think seriously about the atrocities against our mothers, sisters and daughters. There is anger among common people because of this. I can feel that rage,” he said.

“Crimes against women should be probed swiftly, and stringent punishment should be given to those who commit demonic acts, it is important to instil confidence in the society,” he said.

“Need of hour is to widely publicise punishment for atrocities against women so that there is fear of consequences,” he said.

“Those who commit such sins should know that they will be hanged. It is important to have that fear,” Mr. Modi added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi ends his 11th Independence Day address speech. The national anthem of India is followed by his address.

Red Fort now moves to further Independence Day celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day address said that as a neighbour we are concerned and hope for normalcy in Bangladesh.

He also said that Indians are worried about safety of Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh. “We are committed to peace in the neighbourhood, we hope for Bangladesh’s progress,” he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day address said 75,000 more medical seats will be created in the next five years.

Modi said that even today, children, mostly belonging to the middle class, are going abroad for medical education. They spend “lakhs and crores” on medical education abroad, he said.

“In the last 10 years we have increased the medical seats to nearly 1 lakh,” PM Modi said. 

“Around 25,000 youths every year go abroad for medical education and they go to such countries, I get surprised when I hear about them. So we have decided, 75,000 new seats will be created in the medical line in the next five years,” Mr. Modi further said.

- PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day address said that his government has taken big steps to boost infrastructure in the country in the last 10 years.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 78th Independence Day, the prime minister said,”There has been tremendous progress in infrastructure in the last ten years. We have also given priority to ease of living.” He said four crore houses have been constructed by his government, and three crore more are on the way.

“We have taken big steps to boost infrastructure in the country in the last ten years,” the prime minister added.

- PTI

The 78th Independence Day celebration records 6,000 guests. Indian Olympic contingent, BRO workers, Lakhpati Didi beneficiaries are some among them.

Read more here:

Independence Day: Indian Olympic contingent, BRO workers, Lakhpati Didi beneficiaries among 6,000 guests

Indian Independence Day celebration with special guests from various sectors, led by PM Modi at Red Fort.

India’s “vibrant” space sector is playing a key role in making India a strong nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his Independence Day address.

Mr. Modi also said his government has made many reforms in the space sector, liberating it from the restrictions of the past “Hundreds of start-ups have come up in the space sector. It is becoming vibrant. It is playing a key role in making India a strong nation.”

“We have made many reforms in the space sector. We have liberated it from the restrictions of the past,” he added.

India has made more efforts in the renewable energy sector compared to other G20 countries, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said

“India is working to become self-reliant for its energy needs and deal with the global problem of climate change.” he said in the Independence Day address. “We had vowed for renewable energy. India has done more than the (other) countries of G20,” he added.

As part of its national climate plan or nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, India has committed to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based electricity installed capacity by 2030.

- PTI

“Today is the day to pay tributes to the uncountable ‘Azaadi ke deewane’ who made sacrifices for the nation. This country is indebted to them.” PM Modi said as he began his address today.

- ANI

PM Modi asserted that India’s 140 crore citizens can achieve the goal of a prosperous and developed country if they walk shoulder to shoulder with united resolve.

He said his government has worked to break the mindset of living with status quo by rolling out big reforms aimed at changing the lives of of the middle class and the poor.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his Independence Day address that people’s concerns have been increasing due to natural disasters over the last few years.

The prime minister’s remarks come against the backdrop of catastrophic landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad in which more than 230 people were killed on July 30, and torrential rains and flooding in many other states.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 78th Independence Day, PM Modi said, “This year and over the last few years, we all are becoming more worried due to the natural disasters.” Heavy monsoon rains and flooding in several states, including in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Assam, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Delhi, have claimed many lives and destroyed public and private property.

- PTI

Prime Minister Modi says India will witness ‘Vikasit Bharat’ in 2047. He says that people of different sections, religion and caste of the nation have shared their ideas for ‘Vikasit Bharat’.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins his 11th Independence Day address in Red Fort

He unfurls the national flag for the 11th time in a row from the ramparts of the Red Fort .

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaches the Red Fort for his Independence Day speech.

He inspects the Guard of Honour at Red Fort before his speech. PM Modi’s Independence Day address to begin soon.

Students are waiting for the Independence Day Celebration at the Red Fort in New Delhi

As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, Google marked the day with a special doodle featuring architectural illustrations.

Congratulating the people of India on the occasion of their Independence Day, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the relationship between the two countries is expanding at a rapid pace. “On this momentous day (India’s Independence Day), we celebrate the rich and diverse history of the Indian people and the bright future of U.S.-Indian relations,” Mr. Blinken said in a statement issued on Wednesday.

“U.S.-India cooperation is expanding at a rapid pace as we continue to work together to advance our shared vision of a free, open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. From climate and clean energy to defence and space technologies, U.S.-Indian bilateral cooperation is more wide-ranging and stronger than ever before,” he said.

Mr. Blinken said India and the U.S. share a deep bond, which is founded on the two nations’ “shared commitment to democracy, freedom, and human dignity”. “I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and globally through the Indian diaspora, a joyous Independence Day,” he said.

PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the national flag for the 11th time in a row on Independence Day – the centrepiece annual event where he lays out his government’s agenda, presents its report card, makes important policy, and programme announcements and speaks about burning issues.

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Freedom from dependence, a new era in health care

India’s health-care system has emerged as a beacon of hope and excellence

Decades after the Red Fort trial, it is hoped that India’s leaders find the wisdom to commit themselves again to what unites us citizens as a people, writes Shashi Tharoor.

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The seductive trap of the civil services

Ashok Lavasa on Independence Day: Public service neither has the monopoly nor does it provide any extraordinary opportunity to serve the nation