Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoists the national flag at the Red Fort, marking India’s 78th Independence Day. The theme for Independence Day 2024, ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047,’ highlights the government’s vision to transform India into a developed nation by 2047.

The celebrations will also include the Indian contingent from the recently concluded Paris Olympics. Other notable guests include tribal artisans, Van Dhan Vikas Members, and tribal entrepreneurs supported by the National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation. Students benefiting from the Atal Innovation Mission and PM SHRI (Prime Minister’s Schools for Rising India) scheme, as well as volunteers from Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) and the National Service Scheme under the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ initiative, will also be present.

Approximately 2,000 individuals from various States and Union Territories, dressed in traditional attire, have been invited to witness the grand ceremony. Additionally, 3,000 winners from various online competitions organized by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with MyGov and Akashvani will participate in the celebrations.

A total of 2,000 Men and women cadets from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, representing different schools across the country, will also be part of the event. These cadets will be seated on Gyanpath, opposite the Rampart, forming the ‘My Bharat’ logo with customized tricolour kits. Furthermore, 500 National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers will also join the celebrations.

Independence Day 2024: PM Modi’s Speech

9:16 am: PM Modi states, “India’s development is not a threat to anyone. As a nation rooted in the teachings of Buddha, we do not follow the path of conflict.”

9:13 am: PM Narendra Modi says, “Supreme Court has held discussions regarding Uniform Civil Code again and again, it has given orders several times. A large section of the country believes – and it is true, that the Civil Code that we are living with is actually a Communal Civil Code in a way…I would say that it is the need of the hour to that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country…only then would we be free of the discrimination on the basis of religion…”

9:06 am: PM Narendra Modi states, “As a neighboring country, I understand the concerns regarding the situation in Bangladesh. I hope for a swift return to normalcy there. The safety of Hindus and minorities is a priority for our 140 crore countrymen. India always desires that our neighboring countries pursue prosperity and peace. We remain committed to peace and will continue to support Bangladesh in its development journey, reflecting our dedication to the welfare of all.”

9:03 am: On Independence Day, PM Modi states, “We are advancing with determination, yet some individuals can only see progress or think of India’s good if it benefits them personally. The country must guard against this small group of pessimists. We face numerous challenges, both external and internal, and these will only grow. I want to assure such detractors that India’s development will not be a threat to anyone. The world should not be concerned about India’s progress.”

9:00 am: In his Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, PM Modi says, “As a society, we must seriously address the atrocities committed against our mothers, sisters, and daughters. There is widespread outrage in the country, and I share that sentiment. The nation, society, and state governments need to take this matter seriously. Crimes against women must be investigated promptly, and those who commit such heinous acts should be punished swiftly to restore faith in society. While incidents of rape and violence against women receive extensive discussion, the punishment of these perpetrators often does not receive the same level of attention.”

8:53 am: PM Narendra Modi says, “Today, we celebrate the youth who made the Indian flag soar high at the #Olympics. On behalf of 140 crore Indians, I congratulate all our athletes and players. In the coming days, a large Indian contingent will head to Paris for the Paralympics, and I extend my best wishes to all our Paralympians. India’s successful organization of the G20 Summit demonstrates our capability to host major events. It is our dream to host the 2036 Olympics, and we are actively preparing for that.”

8:48 am: PM Narendra Modi said, “From the Red Fort today, I want to express my deep pain once again. As a society, we must seriously address the atrocities against women, which have sparked widespread outrage across the country. I share this sense of outrage. It is crucial for the nation, society, and state governments to take this matter seriously. Swift investigations and stringent punishments for perpetrators are essential to restore societal confidence. Additionally, while cases of rape and violence against women receive extensive coverage, the punishment of such offenders often goes unnoticed. It is imperative that we highlight these punishments more prominently so that those who commit these heinous acts understand the severe consequences they face. Instilling this fear is crucial.”

8:45 am: PM Modi stated, “Today, many major global companies and investors are eager to invest in India. This presents a golden opportunity. I urge state governments to develop clear policies to attract investors and ensure good governance and a stable law and order situation. States should compete to attract the maximum number of investors, and their policies should be adapted to meet global standards and requirements.”

8:40 am: PM Modi stated, “We are achieving self-reliance in the defense sector. Today, we have established our own identity in defense equipment manufacturing, with India emerging as a key hub for defense production.”

8:36 am: In his Independence Day 2024 speech, PM Modi announced, “In the next five years, we will add 75,000 new seats in medical colleges across India. As we strive for ‘Viksit Bharat 2047,’ we must also aim for a ‘Swasth Bharat,’ which is why we have launched the Rashtriya Poshan Mission.”

8:34 am: PM Modi stated, “For working women, we have extended maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. Our respect for women goes beyond mere words; we make decisions that ensure the government supports, rather than hinders, a mother’s ability to nurture her child into a quality citizen.”

8:32 am: PM Modi has urged every level of government, from panchayats to the central administration, to focus on enhancing ease of living as a top priority.

8:30 am: In his Independence Day speech, PM Modi emphasized, “We have prioritized justice over mere punishment in our new criminal laws.”

8:24 am: PM Modi stated, “The youth of our country are not content with slow progress. They do not believe in incremental steps but are eager to make bold leaps and achieve new milestones. I believe this is a golden era for India, especially when compared to the global context. We must seize this opportunity and, with our dreams and determination, strive towards achieving the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.'”

8:16 am: Discussing the space sector, PM Modi stated, “The space sector is crucial to our vision. We have introduced numerous reforms in this field, and today, many startups are entering the sector. This vibrant space industry is a key component in making India a powerful nation. We are strengthening this sector with a long-term vision.”

8:10 am: PM Modi stated, “We were entrusted with a significant responsibility and have implemented major reforms. I want to assure the nation that our commitment to these reforms goes beyond mere editorial praise or temporary accolades. Our approach to reform is driven by a genuine intention to strengthen the country, not by any external pressures. I believe our reform path serves as a blueprint for growth. This transformation is not just a topic for debate clubs, intellectual societies, or experts. We undertook these changes not for political reasons, but with one unwavering resolve: Nation First.”

8:06 am: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, PM Modi stated, “In our pursuit of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047,’ we sought suggestions from our fellow citizens. The diverse ideas we received reflect their dreams and aspirations. Some proposed making India the skill capital, while others suggested turning it into a manufacturing hub and achieving self-reliance. There were calls for reforms in governance and the justice system, the creation of new greenfield cities, capacity building, and even establishing India’s own space station. These aspirations elevate our self-confidence and strengthen our resolve.”

8:02 am: PM Modi remarked, “We cannot forget the Corona period. Our country led the world in vaccinating the largest number of people in the shortest time. This is the same nation that once faced terrorist attacks. When our armed forces carry out surgical strikes or airstrikes, it fills the youth of our nation with pride. That is why today, all 140 crore citizens are proud.”

8:00 am: PM Modi stated, “We introduced the mantra of ‘Vocal for Local,’ and today, I am pleased to see that it has become a key principle of our economic system. Every district is now taking pride in its unique produce, fostering an environment of ‘One District, One Product.'”

7:55 am: Prime Minister also expressed deep sorrow over the natural disasters that have caused immense pain and loss of life across the country, emphasizing that these events have heightened concerns in recent years. He conveyed his sympathies to the families affected by these calamities, acknowledging the hardships they have endured.

7:50 am: Speaking at the Red Fort, PM Modi remarked, “We take pride in the legacy of the 40 crore people who freed India from colonial rule. Today, we are 140 crore strong, and if we unite and work together with determination, we can achieve the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, overcoming any obstacles in our path.”

7:45 am: PM Modi stated, “In recent years, natural calamities have increased our concerns. Many have lost loved ones and property, and the nation has also faced significant losses. Today, I extend my deepest sympathy to all those affected and assure them that the nation stands with them in this hour of crisis.”

7:42 am: Addressing the nation from the Red Fort, PM Modi stated, “Today, we pay tribute to the countless ‘Azaadi ke deewane’ who sacrificed for our nation. The country remains forever indebted to them.”

7:35 am: Indian Air Force’s Advanced Light Helicopters shower flower petals, as PM Narendra Modi hoists the Tiranga on the ramparts of Red Fort.

7:30 am: PM Narendra Modi hoists the Tiranaga on the ramparts of the Red Fort. He is set to deliver his 11th Independence Day address from here, shortly.

7:21 am: PM Modi Reaches Red Fort

7:17 am: Flag hoisting ceremony at Embassy of India in Japan

7:11 am: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on Independence Day 2024.

7:00 am: LoP Rahul Gandhi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrive at the Red Fort

6:55 am: NSA Ajit Doval reaches Red Fort.

6:53 am: Amit Shah arrives at the Red Fort. He extended Independence day wishes on X earlier in the day.

6:51 am: Union Minister G Kishan Reddy hoists the national flag at his official residence in Delhi

6:48 am: Freedom wasn’t given to us on a silver platter by the Britishers, says Shivraj Singh Chouhan

6:45 am: Union Minister Bhupender Yadav arrives at the Red Fort for India’s 78th Independence Day celebrations.

6:43 am: Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya arrives at the Red Fort for India’s 78th Independence Day celebrations.

6:34 am: Parade marches through as the preparations at the Red fort are going on

6:25 am: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan hoist the national flag at his official residence in Delhi as India celebrates its 78th

6:21 am: Preparations are on at the historic Red Fort in the national capital, Delhi for India’s 78th Independence Day celebration.

6:06 am: The iconic Red Fort in Delhi is all set for India’s 78th Independence Day celebration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag today for the 11th year in a row.

6:00 am:  Vehicles are being checked in Delhi as security is beefed up in the national capital as India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, today. (Visuals from Dhaula Kuan)

5:56 am: Indian Olympic contingent leaves for Red Fort to attend Independence Day celebrations.

5:53 am: Vehicles are being checked in Delhi as security is beefed up in the national capital in the wake of the 78th Independence Day.

5:48 am: Mantralaya building illuminated on the eve of 78th Independence Day.

5:45 am: Mumbai’s Atal Setu illuminates in tricolour as India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, today

5:30 am: US State Secy Blinken lauds bilateral ties, extends wishes to India on 78th Independence Day