Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the celebrations of the 75th year of Independence would be based on public participation and revolve around five themes — the freedom struggle and ideas, achievements, actions and resolve at 75.
Mr. Modi addressed the first meeting of the national committee chaired by him for the commemoration of the feat next year, starting with events this month. Speaking via video conferencing with Governors, Chief Ministers and prominent artistes, among others, who form the 259-member committee, Mr. Modi said the anniversary should be marked as a festival with the spirit of the freedom movement and a tribute to martyrs being highlighted.
“He said this festival should embody the glimpse of the glory of Sanatan Bharat and also the glow of modern India. He said it should reflect the light of the spirituality of the sages and also the talent and strength of our scientists. He said it will also showcase our achievements of these 75 years to the world and also give a framework for resolution to us for the next 25 years,” a government statement said.
Mr. Modi said the stories of the “lesser-known” freedom fighters should be publicised and the contribution of different sections of society should be brought to the fore.
The statement said Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the suggestions made by members would be looked into. Among those who gave suggestions were former President Pratibha Patil, former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, former Lok Sabha Speakers Meira Kumar and Sumitra Mahajan and BJP president J.P. Nadda, according to the statement.
