India (Commonwealth Union)_ As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a momentous speech marking the nation’s historical day from New Delhi’s Red Fort. Accordingly, the occasion, steeped in national pride and tradition, saw the Prime Minister in a white kurta, a blue jacket, and a traditional multicolored safa. Prior to the ceremony, he paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, a gesture symbolizing respect for India’s freedom struggle. After reaching the Red Fort, Modi unfurled the national flag and delivered his 11th consecutive Independence Day address, a milestone achieved only by Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi among India’s Prime Ministers.
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78th Independence Day 2024 theme
This year’s Independence Day theme, “Viksit Bharat@2047,” reflects the government’s ambitious vision to transform India into a fully developed nation by 2047, commemorating a century of independence. Prime Minister NarendraModi’s address was a blend of reflection on past achievements and a roadmap for future progress. On this special day, PM Modi also extended his Independence Day 2024 greetings to the nation. He posted on X, “Independence Day greetings to my fellow Indians. Jai Hind!”. Furthermore, on Independence Day, PM Modi renewed his call for ‘one nation, one election,’ arguing that frequent elections impede the nation’s progress.
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Security and celebrations
The celebrations at the Red Fort were fortified with rigorous security measures, including snipers, elite SWAT teams, and kite catchers to ensure the safety of the Prime Minister and the esteemed guests. Additionally, 700 AI-powered facial recognition cameras were installed across central and New Delhi to enhance surveillance and maintain public safety. The event witnessed the presence of 6,000 special guests, including members from tribal communities, farmers, women, ASHA workers, nurse midwives, anganwadi workers, and athletes from the recent Paris Olympics. As the Prime Minister prepared for his speech, dignitaries including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, HD Kumaraswamy, Delhi Lt Governor VK Saxena, and Kiren Rijiju also arrived at the Red Fort.
President Droupadi Murmu’s speech
On the eve of Independence Day 2024, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the significance of affirmative action for greater inclusion and condemned divisive social hierarchies. Her address celebrated India’s democratic ethos as a global beacon, aligning with the themes of unity and progress. Emphasizing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s assertion that “political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy,” President Murmu called for a reinforcement of affirmative action to promote inclusion and urged citizens to reject divisive tendencies rooted in social hierarchies. Additionally, President Murmu presented gallantry and service medals to police and security personnel, including the President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG) and 213 Medals for Gallantry (GM).
PM Modi’s historical speech: A vision for the future
In his address, PM Modi declared that India is entering its “golden era” with a vision to become a fully developed nation by 2047. He emphasized the nation’s journey towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy and urged the country to face challenges with renewed determination. In his historic address, PM Modi underscored the sacrifices of freedom fighters, expressing profound gratitude for their contributions. Reflecting on the past decade, he highlighted the government’s efforts to empower women, noting that 10 crore women have joined self-help groups, receiving 9 lakh crores in support. This initiative has fostered financial independence and societal empowerment, underscoring a commitment to positive social change.
The Prime Minister also announced plans to introduce 75,000 new seats in the medical sector over the next five years to reduce the need for students to pursue education abroad. This move aligns with the broader goal of a “Healthy Bharat,” reinforced by the launch of the Poshan Mission aimed at improving public health. Additionally, in light of recent protests over violent incidents, Modi addressed the issue of violence against women with urgency, stressing the need for swift justice and stringent punishment for offenders. His speech resonated with a call for societal and governmental action to combat gender-based violence.
Infrastructure and policy initiatives
PM Modi took the opportunity to highlight the unprecedented infrastructure development of the past decade. He spoke about advancements in roads, airports, railways, medical colleges, and affordable housing. The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing every sector, integrating world-class practices, and ensuring technological connectivity. He praised the progress across various sectors, including tourism, MSMEs, education, health, transport, and agriculture, underscoring the role of modern practices and technological connectivity in driving this growth. The address also touched on the government’s commitment to a secular civil code, aimed at replacing discriminatory laws with a unified legal framework. Prime Minister NarendraModi advocated for a transition from a communal civil code to a secular one, reflecting a vision for equality and justice.
Wishes from global leaders
On this special occasion, international leaders extended their congratulations to India. Global leaders expressed their desire to strengthen diplomatic ties with India on this 78th Independence Day. Accordingly, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israel’s envoy to India, Mr. Naor Gilon, along with leaders from Nepal and the Maldives, sent their best wishes. This global recognition underscores the strengthening of diplomatic ties between India and other nations.
Commitment to ‘Viksit Bharat’
Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a “Golden Era” for India is encapsulated in the slogan “24/7 for 2047,” reflecting his dedication to realizing the nation’s aspirations. His address highlighted a commitment to transforming India into the world’s third-largest economy and addressing global challenges, including climate change. Modi proudly noted that India is the only G20 nation to have met its climate targets under the 2015 Paris Agreement ahead of schedule, showcasing the country’s environmental leadership.
Conclusion
The 78th Independence Day marked not just a celebration of freedom but also a reaffirmation of India’s path towards comprehensive development. With a focus on inclusive growth, modernization, and global leadership, PM Modi’s address laid out a clear vision for the future, embodying the spirit of “Viksit Bharat” and setting a course for a prosperous and unified India. As the nation moves forward, the promises made and the milestones achieved will serve as the foundation for India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
