India is set to celebrate its 78th Independence Day on August 15, 2024, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the nation from the iconic Red Fort in Delhi. This year’s celebrations are not just a commemoration of the country’s freedom from colonial rule but also a platform to push forward the vision of “Viksit Bharat @ 2047,” marking a renewed commitment to transforming India into a developed nation by its 100th year of independence.
The Theme: ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047’
The theme for this year’s Independence Day, ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047,’ aligns with the government’s long-term vision for the country. It reflects the ambition to build a developed, self-reliant, and prosperous India by the year 2047, when the country will complete a century of independence. This theme underscores various government initiatives aimed at accelerating economic growth, fostering innovation, and ensuring social welfare for all citizens.
Prime Minister Modi, in his address to the nation, is expected to highlight the achievements of the past year while also outlining the roadmap for the next two decades. The theme serves as a reminder of the continuous efforts needed to realise the dream of a developed India, including advancements in technology, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Involving the Nation: Special Guests at the Red Fort
This year, the celebrations at Red Fort will witness the participation of around 6,000 special guests from diverse walks of life. These guests have been carefully selected to represent the nation’s collective progress and the success of various government schemes. The idea is to enhance public participation, or Jan Bhagidari, in this national celebration, making it more inclusive and reflective of India’s diverse population.
The special guests include students benefiting from the Atal Innovation Mission and PM SHRI (Prime Minister’s Schools for Rising India) scheme, volunteers from Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat), and the National Service Scheme under the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ initiative. These young minds symbolise the future of India, embodying the spirit of innovation and service.
Additionally, representatives from the tribal community, including artisans and entrepreneurs supported by the National Scheduled Tribes Finance & Development Corporation, have been invited. Their presence highlights the government’s commitment to uplifting marginalised communities and integrating them into the national mainstream.
Farmers, the backbone of the nation, are also prominently featured in this year’s celebrations. Beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, along with members of Farmers Producing Organisations, will attend the event. Their inclusion underscores the importance of agriculture in India’s economy and the government’s focus on enhancing farmers’ welfare.
Women achievers, including Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANM), Anganwadi workers, and beneficiaries of various women empowerment initiatives like Sakhi Kendra and Lakhpati Didi, will also be part of the audience. Their involvement celebrates the role of women in driving social change and development in rural and urban India.
The Ceremony: A Display of National Pride
The Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort is steeped in tradition and grandeur. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi will be welcomed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane. Following a general salute from a combined Inter-Services and Delhi Police Guard, the Prime Minister will inspect the Guard of Honour, a contingent coordinated this year by the Indian Navy.
The ceremony will then proceed to the unfurling of the National Flag, a moment of immense pride for every Indian. Lieutenant Sanjeet Saini will assist Prime Minister Modi in this task, synchronising with a 21 Gun Salute by the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial) using indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns. The National Flag Guard, comprising personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police, will present the Rashtriya Salute as the Tricolour is unfurled.
As the National Anthem plays, two Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruv of the Indian Air Force will shower flower petals over the venue, adding a touch of splendour to the occasion. This aerial display will be led by Wing Commanders Amber Agarwal and Rahul Nainwal.
Honouring India’s Olympic Contingent
In a special gesture, the Indian contingent from the recently concluded Paris Olympics has been invited to the celebrations. Their participation serves as a recognition of their dedication and achievements, inspiring the nation to excel not just in sports but in all fields of human endeavour.
A Vision for the Future
Prime Minister Modi’s address is anticipated to be a crucial part of the celebrations, where he will articulate the government’s vision for the future. The focus will likely be on building a self-reliant India, promoting innovation, and ensuring sustainable development. The inclusion of 3,000 winners of online competitions organised by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with MyGov and Akashvani reflects the government’s effort to engage citizens in shaping the nation’s future.
The Independence Day celebrations will conclude with a vibrant display of unity and national pride, as cadets from the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and volunteers from the National Service Scheme (NSS) sing the National Anthem, forming the ‘My Bharat’ logo with customised tricolour kits.
