Prime Minister Narendra Modi Hoists National Flag at Red Fort, Celebrates 78th Independence Day
Desk Report, August 15, 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at Delhi’s Red Fort on India’s 78th Independence Day, marking his 11th consecutive year leading the ceremony. Despite a cloudy sky and light rain, the event proceeded without interruption, symbolizing another proud moment in the nation’s history.
After the flag was raised, Prime Minister Modi received a ‘Rashtriya Salute’ from the Punjab Regiment’s military band, which played the National Anthem.
Before the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi shared his Independence Day greetings on his social media platform, X, with a message that read, “Independence Day greetings to my fellow Indians. Jai Hind!” Upon arriving at the Red Fort, he was greeted by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane. The Defence Secretary then introduced Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding (GoC), Delhi Area, to the Prime Minister.
Lieutenant General Kumar escorted Prime Minister Modi to the Saluting Base, where a combined Inter-Services and Delhi Police Guard presented a general salute. The Guard of Honour, commanded by Commander Arun Kumar Mehta, featured one officer and 24 personnel each from the Army, Air Force, and Delhi Police. Leading the contingents were Major Arjun Singh (Army), Lieutenant Commander Gulia Bhavesh NK (Navy), Squadron Leader Akshara Uniyal (Air Force), and Additional DCP Anurag Dwivedi (Delhi Police).
This year, the Indian Navy coordinated the event, aiming to boost public participation. Around 6,000 special guests were invited to witness the celebrations at Red Fort, reflecting efforts to make this national occasion more inclusive and widely celebrated.
सभी देशवासियों को स्वतंत्रता दिवस की ढेरों शुभकामनाएं। जय हिंद!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2024
Independence Day greetings to my fellow Indians. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
