Independence Day Celebration
The Independence Day of India, which is celebrated religiously throughout the Country on the 15th of August every year, holds tremendous ground in the list of national days, since it reminds every Indian about the dawn of a new beginning, the beginning of an era of deliverance from the clutches of British colonialism of more than 200 years. It was on 15th August 1947 that India was declared independent from British colonialism, and the reins of control were handed over to the leaders of the Country. India’s gaining of independence was a tryst with destiny, as the struggle for freedom was a long and tiresome one, witnessing the sacrifices of many freedom fighters, who laid down their lives on the line.
President’s Speech: DROUPADI MURMU
I extend my heartiest greetings to all of you on the eve of Independence Day. It is a matter of pride for all of us that Independence Day and Republic Day are celebrated by every Indian with zeal and enthusiasm. These are the days that especially remind us of our being proud Indians.
The fifteenth of August is a date etched in our collective memory. During the long years of colonial rule, generations of Indians dreamt of the day of independence. Men and women, old and young, from all parts of the country, yearned to throw away the yoke of foreign rule. Their struggle was marked by robust optimism, which has continued to propel our progress since Independence too. As we salute the tricolour tomorrow, we will also be paying homage to the memory of all freedom fighters whose sacrifices won India Independence on the 15th of August, 78 years ago.
After regaining our freedom, we also became a democracy with universal adult franchise. In other words, we the people of India put the power to shape our destiny in the hands of each of us, without any restrictions of gender, religion and other factors that had barred many people from voting in other democracies. In spite of many challenges, the people of India made a successful transition to democracy. The transition was a natural reflection of our ancient democratic ethos. India had the oldest republics in the world. It is rightly acknowledged as the mother of democracy. When we adopted the Constitution, it provided the edifice of democracy. We built democratic institutions that strengthened the practice of democracy. We prize our Constitution and our democracy above everything else.
As we look back on the past, we must not forget the pain inflicted by the Partition of the country. Today we observed Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas. Terrible violence was witnessed, and millions were forced to relocate due to Partition. Today, we pay tributes to the victims of the follies of history.
Dear Fellow Citizens,
Our Constitution contains four values as the four pillars upholding our democracy. They are – justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. These are our civilisational principles that we re-discovered during the Freedom Struggle. At the heart of them all, I believe, is the notion of human dignity. Every human being is equal, and everyone deserves to be treated with dignity. Everyone should have equal access to healthcare and education. Everyone should have equal opportunity. Those who had been traditionally at a disadvantage needed to be given a helping hand.
Keeping these principles foremost in mind, we started a new journey in 1947. After the long years of foreign rule, India was in utter poverty at the time of Independence. But in the 78 years since then, we have made extraordinary progress in all fields. India is well on the way to becoming a self-reliant nation and is moving ahead with great confidence.
In the economic field, our achievements are all the more noticeable. With a GDP growth rate of 6.5 percent in the last fiscal, India is the fastest growing among the major economies in the world. Even amid stress in the global economy, demand at home is pacing ahead. Inflation has remained under control. Exports are rising. All key indicators show the economy in the pink of health. This is as much due to carefully calibrated reforms and sagacious economic management as due to the hard work and dedication of our workers and farmers.
A large number of people have been pulled out of poverty through good governance. The government has been running a series of welfare initiatives for the poor and also for those who have risen above the poverty line but are still vulnerable, so that they do not fall below it again. This is reflected in the rising expenditure on social services. Income inequality is reducing. Regional disparities are also disappearing. The States and regions, earlier known for weaker economic performance, are now showing their true potential and catching up with the front-runners.
Our business leaders, small and medium industries and traders have always exhibited a can-do spirit; what was needed was removing the bottlenecks in the path of wealth creation. That is so visible when it comes to infrastructure development over the past decade. We have expanded and strengthened the National Highway network under the Bharatmala Pariyojana. The Railways too have innovated, introducing new types of trains and coaches equipped with latest technologies. The inauguration of the rail link in Kashmir valley is a major accomplishment. Rail connectivity with the valley will boost trade and tourism in the region and open new economic possibilities. This engineering marvel at Kashmir is a historic milestone for our country.
The country is rapidly urbanizing. Hence, the Government has been paying special attention to improve the conditions of the cities. Addressing the key area of urban transport, the Government has expanded metro rail facilities. The number of cities with a metro rail service has gone up multifold in a decade. The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation, or AMRUT, has ensured more and more households have access to a tap with the assured supply of water and a sewerage connection.
The Government considers the basic amenities of life as rightful claims of the citizens. The Jal Jeevan Mission is making progress in providing tap water supply to rural households.
In the healthcare sector, we have been witnessing a paradigm shift with a variety of initiatives under Ayushman Bharat, the largest healthcare scheme of its kind in the world. This scheme has already provided cover to more than 55 crore people. The government extended this benefit to all senior citizens of the age of 70 years and above, regardless of their income. As inequalities in access are removed, the poor and the lower middle-class also benefit from the best possible health-care facilities.
In this Digital Age, it is apt that one sector in India that has seen the most dramatic advances is information technology. Nearly all villages have 4G mobile connectivity, and the remaining few thousands will be covered soon. This has made possible large-scale adoption of digital payment technologies, in which India has become a world leader in a short span. It has also supported Direct Benefit Transfer, which ensures that welfare benefits reach the intended beneficiaries without glitch and leakage. More than half of the total number of digital transactions in the world take place in India. These developments have created a vibrant digital economy whose contribution to the country’s GDP is increasing year on year.
Artificial intelligence is the next stage of technological advancement and has already entered our lives. The government has launched the India-AI mission to strengthen the country’s AI capabilities. It is also helping to build AI models that answer to India’s specific requirements. As we aspire to become a global-AI-hub by 2047, our focus will remain on making the best use of the advances in technology for the common people, to improve their lives by improving governance.
For betterment of the lives of the common people there is equal emphasis on improving the ease of doing business as well as on improving the ease of living. Development serves the purpose only when it helps those on the margins and opens new opportunities for them. Moreover, we are increasing our self-reliance in every area possible. This has added to our self-confidence and increased the momentum of our journey towards becoming Viksit Bharat.
Last week, on August 7, the country celebrated ‘National Handloom Day’ which honours our weavers and their products. Since the year 2015, we have been celebrating this day to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement launched during our freedom struggle in the year 1905. The spirit of Swadeshi was strengthened by Mahatma Gandhi to promote the products made by the sweat and toil of Indian artisans and crafts-persons, and by their incomparable skills. The idea of Swadeshi has been inspiring our national endeavours like Make-in-India initiative and Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Let us resolve to buy and use Indian products.
Dear Fellow Citizens,
The all-round economic growth complemented by social sector initiatives has placed India well on the path of becoming a developed economy by 2047. With the nation marching ahead during the Amrit Kaal, I see all of us contributing to the best of our ability. I believe, there are three sections of society that will lead us on this path – youth, women and the communities that had for long remained on the margins.
Our youth have finally found the right environment for the realisation of their dreams. The National Education Policy has brought in far-reaching changes, aligning learning with values, and skills with tradition. Employment opportunities are booming. For those with entrepreneurial aspirations, the Government has created the most conducive ecosystem. Fueled by young minds, our space program has witnessed unprecedented expansion. I am sure that Shubhanshu Shukla’s space journey to the International Space Station has fired a whole generation to dream bigger. It will prove extremely helpful for India’s upcoming human space flight program, ‘Gaganyaan’. Brimming with a new confidence, our youth are making a mark in sports and games. Chess, for example, is now dominated by India’s youngsters like never before. We foresee transformative changes which will establish India as a global sporting power-house under the vision contained in the National Sports Policy 2025.
Our daughters are our pride. They are breaching barriers in every field, including in the areas of defence and security. Sports are among important indicators of excellence, empowerment and potential. A nineteen-year-old girl and a thirty-eight-year-old woman from India were the finalists in the FIDE Women’s World Cup for chess championship. This underlines the sustained and globally comparable excellence across generations among our women. The gender gap in employment has also been reducing. With ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’, the empowerment of women is no longer a slogan but a reality.
People belonging to a major segment of our society comprising Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes and other communities are shedding the tag of the marginalised. The Government has been actively helping them to realise their social and economic aspirations with several initiatives.
India is moving ahead at a faster pace towards realizing its true potential. As our reforms and policies have created an effective platform, I can see a bright future ahead in which every one of us will be energetically contributing to the prosperity and happiness of all of us.
We are moving ahead towards that future with sustained good governance, and zero tolerance for corruption. Here I am reminded of an important statement by Mahatma Gandhi. He had noted, and I quote:
“Corruption and hypocrisy ought not to be inevitable products of democracy.”
Let us pledge to realise Gandhiji’s ideal and weed out corruption.
Dear Fellow Citizens,
This year we had to face the scourge of terrorism. Killing innocent citizens on holiday in Kashmir was cowardly and utterly inhuman. India responded in a decisive manner and with steely resolve. Operation Sindoor showed that our armed forces are prepared to meet any eventuality when it comes to guarding the nation. With strategic clarity and technical capability, they destroyed terrorist hubs across the border. I believe, Operation Sindoor will go down in history as an example in humanity’s fight against terrorism.
In our response, what was most noticeable was our unity, which is also the most befitting response to those who wanted to divide us. Our unity was on display also in the multi-party delegations of the Members of Parliament that reached out to various nations to explain India’s position. The world has taken note of India’s stance, that we will not be the aggressor, but we will not hesitate to retaliate in defence of our citizens.
Operation Sindoor was also a test case of the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission in the defence sector. The outcome has proved that we are on the right path. Our indigenous manufacturing has achieved the critical level that makes us self-sufficient in meeting many of our security requirements. These are landmark achievements in India’s defence history since Independence.
Dear Fellow Citizens,
I would like to take this opportunity to urge all of you to do what you can, to protect the environment. To respond to the challenge of climate change, we must also change. We must change our habits and our world-view. We must change our relationship with our land, rivers, mountains, and with flora and fauna. With contribution from all of us, we will leave behind a planet in which life will be flourishing in natural order.
Dear Fellow Citizens,
I have in mind especially the soldiers guarding our borders, and the police as well as Central Armed Police Forces. I extend my greetings to the members of the judiciary and the civil services. My Independence Day greetings to the Indian officials in the missions abroad and also to the Indian diaspora!
I once again extend my greetings for Independence Day.
𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐲!
Today, on Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, the nation pays homage to the victims and those who sacrificed their lives and suffered unimaginable pain during the #partition in 1947. 
#PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay#VibhajanVibhishikaSmritiDiwas#HarGharTiranga#FlagCodeOfIndia#HarGharTiranga2025#79thIndependenceDay#independenceday2025#IndependenceDay
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation on the occasion of 79the Independence Day. Earlier, PM Modi paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat here. The PM then reached the Red Fort, where he was given a guard of honour before hoisting the Red Flag.
In Nagaland, the state police and Indian Reserve Battalions have been placed on high alert after insurgent groups NSCN/GPRN (Yung Aung) and ULFA-I called for a boycott of the celebrations. Adding to the situation, the 5-Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy (CoRRP) — representing the Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma, and Sumi tribes — announced its decision not to participate in protest against the state’s handling of job reservation policy issues. Student bodies in several districts have barred participation by educational institutions, while the state government has made attendance mandatory for government staff. Authorities remain optimistic about peaceful proceedings.
From the south, Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar extended heartfelt greetings to citizens. In his message, he urged people to honor the sacrifices of freedom fighters and uphold democratic values, inclusion, and self-reliance, envisioning a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
In the national capital, the Delhi Traffic Police has rolled out an extensive traffic advisory for August 15. Several arterial roads near the Red Fort — the venue of the Prime Minister’s address — will be closed between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. Commuters have been advised to use public transport and follow designated alternative routes to avoid congestion. Goods vehicles will face restrictions, and interstate buses will be diverted to keep the central area free for ceremonial activities.
Weather conditions in Delhi may feature a cloudy sky and light showers, with temperatures hovering between 23°C and 33°C, according to the India Meteorological Department. The forecast brings both relief and caution for attendees of the main ceremony.
Meanwhile, the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) welcomed distinguished guests from the Ayush Ministry and the medicinal plants sector, recognizing their contributions to International Day of Yoga initiatives. Guests participated in interactive discussions, experienced a “Y-Break” session designed for working professionals, and toured MDNIY’s facilities. The program highlighted yoga’s integration into daily life as a pathway to discipline, harmony, and service.
‘RSS doesn’t have any history, Congress party has a longer history’: Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar on PM Modi’s speech
“RSS doesn’t have any history. The Congress party has a longer history in this country. We all know that they (RSS) did not hoist the national flag for a long time, and Vajpayee ji took an initiative on this issue. It is their party agenda and I don’t want to comment on it now…Congress party has always protected the Constitution and the country,” he said.
15:04 (IST) Aug 15
‘Time has come not merely to liberalize, but liberate’: Sadhguru’s message on 79 Independence Day
Independence Day 2025 Live: America extends ‘warm wishes’; calls India-US ties ‘consequential and far-reaching’
The United States on Friday extended congratulations to India on its 79th Independence Day and said that the “historic ties” between India and the US are “consequential and far-reaching.”Read full story
10:58 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘Daam kam, dum zyada’ – PM Modi’s strong pitch amid tariff war
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday from the ramparts of Red Fort, countered US President Donald Trump’s tariff threat with a big ‘Make in India’ push. Making a strong pitch for ‘self-reliant’ India under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, PM Modi said that India must focus on producing high-quality products and work on ‘Daam kam, dum zyada’ mantra.Read full story
10:05 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: PM Modi delivers 103-minute speech, longest ever by any PM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday delivered a 103-minute Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, the longest by any prime minister in India’s history.
Modi broke his own 98-minute record from the 78th Independence Day last year.
His longest Independence Day speech before 2024 was 96 minutes in 2016 while his shortest speech was in 2017 when he spoke for 56 minutes.
ndependence Day 2025 Live: Narendra Modi announces ‘High-Power Demography Mission’
“I would like to alert the nation about a concern, a challenge. Under a well-thought-out conspiracy, country’s demography is being changed, seeds of a new crisis are being sown. Infiltrators are snatching away the livelihood of the youth of my country. Infiltrators are targeting the sisters and daughters of my country. This will not be tolerated,” he said.
“These infiltrators mislead innocent tribals and capture their land. The country will not tolerate this. When demographic change takes place in border areas, it causes a threat to national security…No country can hand it over to infiltrators…So, I would like to say that we have decided to start a ‘High-Power Demography Mission’,” he added.
09:17 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: PM Modi announces Mission Sudarshan Chakra
“India to launch Mission Sudarshan Chakra to create powerful weapon system to thwart any attempt by enemies to attack us,” said PM Modi.
“In the next ten years, by 2035, I want to expand, strengthen, and modernise this national security shield. Drawing inspiration from Lord Shri Krishna, we have chosen the path of the Sudarshan Chakra…The nation will be launching the Sudarshan Chakra Mission,” the PM said.
09:14 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: India will not allow infiltrators to grab land of tribals, says PM Modi
“Government to set up high-powered demographic mission to deal with challenge of demographic change due to infiltration. India will not allow infiltrators to grab land of tribals,” PM Modi said in apparent reference to illegal immigrants.
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘I salute the dedication of RSS volunteers in serving the nation over the past 100 years,’ says PM Modi
“Today, I would like to proudly mention that 100 years ago, an organisation was born – Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). 100 years of service to the nation is a proud, golden chapter. With the resolve of ‘vyakti nirman se rashtra nirman‘, with the aim of welfare of Maa Bharati, swayamsevaks dedicated their lives to the welfare of our motherland…In a way, RSS is the biggest NGO of the world. It has a history of 100 years of dedication,” said PM Modi.
09:02 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: We aim to bring the development in eastern India, says PM Modi
“We aim to bring the development in eastern India at par with the development in rest of India… We approved thousands of crores for infra projects there,” says PM Modi.
08:55 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘Modi is standing like a wall in front of any policy against the interest of our farmers,’ says the PM
“Modi is standing like a wall in front of any policy against the interest of our farmers, fishermen, cattle rearers of India,” said PM Modi amid tariff row with the US. The United States President Donald Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on India as New Delhi continues to purchase crude oil from Russia.
“Today India is number one in the world in production of milk, pulses, jute. India is also the second-biggest fish producer. India is also the second-biggest producer of rice, wheat, fruits, vegetables. Export of agro-products worth 4 lakh crore has happened. Many schemes are there to support them. Farmers are becoming courageous with insurance,” he said.
08:47 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: PM Modi announces Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana
Under the scheme, those getting their first job in the private sector will get Rs 15,000 from the government.
08:40 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: PM Modi promises big Diwali gift in form of next-generation GST reforms
“This Diwali, I am going to make it a double Diwali for you… Over the past eight years, we have undertaken a major reform in GST… We are bringing next-generation GST reforms. This will reduce the tax burden across the country,” said PM Modi.
“In the last 11 years, entrepreneurship has flourished, lakhs of startups are in tier-2, tier-3 cities helping to boost our economy; Mudra Yojana has helped crores of youth, women with Mudra loans,” he added.
08:37 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: Want our traders, shopkeepers to display boards for ‘Swadeshi’ products, says PM Modi
“We have carried out huge reforms in Income Tax laws, some people may have missed it amid din. Past decade was of reform, perform and transform; now we have to focus on greater goals. Want our traders, shopkeepers to display boards for ‘Swadeshi’ products,” said PM Modi.
08:34 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: More than 40,000 unnecessary compliances have been eliminated, says PM Modi
“We have implemented major reforms across various sectors, including Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), insurance, and opening space for the world’s top universities to operate in India. We have overhauled outdated criminal laws that had remained unchanged for decades. More than 40,000 unnecessary compliances have been eliminated,” PM Modi said.
“We also introduced significant reforms in the Income Tax system, all aimed at improving ease of living for every citizen…We have ended the colonial-era criminal laws of British times and introduced the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, a step toward justice rooted in Indian values,” he added.
08:28 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘In the last 10 years, we set our target to become self-reliant in the defence sector, and today we are seeing the results,’ says PM Modi
“We have seen the wonders of Made in India in Operation Sindoor. Even the enemy was shocked at the kind of ammunition that was destroying them within seconds. Had we not been self-reliant, would we have been able to carry out Operation Sindoor at such a level? In the last 10 years, we set our target to become self-reliant in the defence sector, and today we are seeing the results,” PM Modi said.
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘India is about to launch National Deep Water Exploration Mission,’ says PM Modi
“We are now also heading towards ‘Samudra Manthan’. Taking this forward, we want to work in Mission Mode to look for the oil and gas reserves in the sea. So, India is about to launch National Deep Water Exploration Mission,” says PM Modi.
08:23 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: India is actively working on the Gaganyaan mission and is also planning its own space station, says PM Modi
“Our Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla has returned from the Space Station, a moment of great pride for the nation. India is actively working on the Gaganyaan mission and is also planning its own space station. We must come together to change the destiny of our country. I appeal to the youth: step forward and contribute to this mission of national transformation,” says PM Modi.
08:19 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘We must strive to produce Made-in-India jet engines for our fighter aircraft,’ says PM Modi
“Today, India is building a modern ecosystem across every sector. I appeal to the youth and to every department of the government: we must strive to produce Made-in-India jet engines for our fighter aircraft. We are known as the pharmacy of the world, but isn’t it the need of the hour to invest more in research and development? Shouldn’t we be the ones providing the best and most affordable medicines for the welfare of humanity?” says PM Modi from Red Fort.
08:16 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live:’Gulami ne humey nirdhan bana diya, gulami ne humey nirbhar bhi bana diya’ says PM Modi
“Countless people sacrificed their lives for Independence, spent their entire youth in prisons, and dedicated their lives to breaking the chains of slavery… ‘Gulami ne humey nirdhan bana diya, gulami ne humey nirbhar bhi bana diya… (Colonisation made us poor, and it also made us dependent) Mere desh ke kisano ne khoon paseena ek kar ke desh ke ann ke bhandaar bhar diye’,” says PM Modi.
Independence Day 2025 Live: Nation to have Made in India semiconductor chips by the end of 2025, says PM Modi
“We are working on semiconductors on Mission Mode…By the end of this year, Made in India semiconductor chips, made by the people in India, will hit the market,” says PM Modi.
08:10 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘To build a truly self-reliant India, we must achieve energy independence,’ says PM Modi
“We know that we remain dependent on many countries to meet our energy needs. But to build a truly self-reliant India, we must achieve energy independence. In the last 11 years, our solar energy capacity has increased by 30 times. We are constructing new dams, and India is now focusing actively on nuclear energy. We have taken significant steps in this direction, with 10 new nuclear reactors currently operational. By the time India celebrates 100 years of independence, we aim to increase our nuclear energy capacity tenfold,” says PM Modi.
08:09 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘File work on semiconductors began 50-60 years ago… it was killed in the womb,’ says PM Modi
“When we speak of different aspects of technology, I draw your attention to semiconductors, as an example. I am not at the Red Fort to criticise any government; I do not want to do it. But the youth of the country should know about it,” said PM Modi.
“File work on semiconductors began 50-60 years ago in our country. The idea of semiconductor factory came forth 50-60 years ago. You would be surprised to know that the idea of semiconductor was killed in the womb 50-60 years ago. We lost 50-60 years,” he added.
08:04 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: Pakistan has lost its sleep after Operation Sindoor, says PM Modi from Red Fort
Speaking on the massacre that occurred at Baisran meadow in Pahalgam on April 22, PM Modi said: “Entire India was outraged, and the entire world was shocked by such a massacre…Operation Sindoor is the expression of that outrage….Destruction in Pakistan is so massive that new revelations are being made every day and new information is coming out daily”
“I am very proud that from the ramparts of the Red Fort, I am getting the opportunity to salute the heroes of Operation Sindoor. Our brave jawans punished the enemy beyond its imagination. On 22nd April, terrorists from across the border came to Pahalgam and killed people after asking their religion…Entire India was outraged, and the entire world was shocked by such a massacre. Operation Sindoor is the expression of that outrage. After the 22nd, we gave a free hand to our armed forces. They decide the strategy, target and time. Our Forces did what had never been done for several decades. We entered hundreds of kilometres into the enemy soil and razed their terrorist HQ to the ground…Destruction in Pakistan is so massive that new revelations are being made every day and new information is coming out daily,” he added.
07:58 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘India has now decided, blood and water will not flow together,’ says PM Modi
“The people have come to realize that the Indus Waters Treaty is unjust. Water from the Indus River system has been irrigating the lands of the enemy, while our own farmers have suffered. What kind of agreement is this that has caused such immense loss to our farmers for the past seven decades?” PM Modi says in his Independence Day address.
07:56 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘Our sympathies are with people affected by natural disaster,’ says PM Modi
“In the past few days, we have been facing natural disasters, landslides, cloudbursts, and many other calamities. Our sympathies are with the affected people. State governments and the central government are working together with full strength on rescue operations, relief efforts, and rehabilitation work,” says PM Modi.
07:52 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: India will not tolerate nuclear threats anymore, says PM Modi
“Nuclear blackmail has been continuing for a long time, but it will no longer be tolerated. If our enemies persist in such attempts, our armed forces will respond, on their own terms, at a time of their choosing, and by achieving the objectives they set. We are ready to give a befitting reply,” PM Modi says.
“Destruction inflicted by our armed forces in Pakistan was so widespread, new revelations are being made every day. India has decided that it will not tolerate nuclear threats anymore, we won’t fall for any blackmail,” he says.
07:51 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: Through Operation Sindoor, our soldiers responded with force beyond the enemy’s imagination, says PM Modi
“I salute the valour of our bravehearts. Through Operation Sindoor, our soldiers have responded with a force beyond the enemy’s imagination. On April 22nd, terrorists from across the border targeted and killed innocent civilians after asking their religion. The entire nation was enraged,” the PM said.
07:49 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: PM Modi pays Tribe to Shyama Prasad Mukherjee
“We are also celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee today. He was the first great man to sacrifice his life for India’s Constitution. By demolishing the wall of Article 370, we paid true tribute to Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee when we realised the mantra of one nation, one Constitution,” says PM Modi.
07:46 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: ‘India’s Constitution has stood as a guiding beacon, illuminating our path’, says PM Modi
“In 1947, with infinite possibilities and the strength of countless arms, our country gained independence. The aspirations of the nation were taking flight, but the challenges were even greater. Following the principles of revered Bapu, the members of the Constituent Assembly fulfilled a profoundly important responsibility. For the past 75 years, India’s Constitution has stood as a guiding beacon, illuminating our path,” says PM Modi.
07:44 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: India bows to makers of Constitution on 79th Independence Day, says PM Modi
“When India became Independent in 1947, there were immense possibilities, and challenges too were big. India bows to makers of Constitution on 79th Independence Day,” PM Modi says.
07:40 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says this Independence Day is festival of hope and aspirations
PM Modi said Independence Day is “a festival of hope and aspirations”. He also paid tribute to freedom fighters and members of the Constituent Assembly.
Independence Day 2025 Live: PM Modi addresses nation from Red Fort for 12th consecutive time
PM Modi begins his 12th Independence Day address to the nation.
07:26 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: Prime Minister Narendra Modi given a ‘Guard of Honour’ at the Red Fort
07:15 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: PM Modi pays tribute at Rajghat ahead of address from Red Fort
Independence Day 2025 Live: Foreign minister S Jaishankar greets nation on 79th Independence Day
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06:47 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: 14,000 personnel, anti-drone systems deployed across Delhi; multi-tier security at Red Fort
The national capital is on a high alert and under a thick security blanket for the Independence Day function on Friday, with snipers at high-rise buildings, heightened camera surveillance, and more than 14,000 security and traffic police personnel deployed across the city.
There is a multi-layered security arrangement in place at the Red Fort from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver his 12th consecutive Independence Day address to the nation on Friday morning.
Surveillance through CCTV cameras, drone detection systems, facial recognition cameras, and ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) cameras is being used to monitor the venue and its surrounding areas, a senior officer said.
For the first time, under-vehicle surveillance systems (UVSS) are being deployed at five parking areas of the Red Fort to scan the underside of vehicles for explosives, weapons, or contraband, he said.
The technology uses cameras and scanners to detect threats or anomalies, bolstering security at the checkpoints and sensitive locations.
Admission will be strictly through invitation cards, and only labelled vehicles are allowed in its vicinity, said the officer.
Headcount cameras to track crowd numbers and devices to flag unattended or suspicious objects are also being deployed, while intrusion-detection cameras monitor the restricted zones, he said.
Snipers and rooftop surveillance teams are deployed to secure the high-rises near the Red Fort, while movement in the designated restricted zones is strictly regulated through access control mechanisms, the officer said.
Meanwhile, special teams have been deployed at all major railway stations, inter-state bus terminals, airports, and metro stations for round-the-clock monitoring, while passenger screenings, baggage checks, and random identity verifications have been intensified, another officer said.
Security is also stepped up at water treatment plants to protect vital installations in the national capital, he said, adding that a special focus is on the north, central, and New Delhi districts.
Delhi Police Commissioner S B K Singh has designated a DCP-rank officer to oversee the anti-drone mechanism, and surveillance along the Yamuna River has been intensified with the help of speed boats, officials said.
On Wednesday, Singh briefed officers on the arrangements with a key directive to ensure there are no bird feeding points in the areas surrounding the Red Fort.
Officers have also been instructed to remain alert and ensure that all arrangements are executed on time.
Delhi Traffic Police has issued strict instructions, restricting commercial vehicles from entering the national capital. Traffic police personnel have been briefed to enforce restrictions and maintain smooth vehicular movement.
In addition, social media platforms are also being closely monitored by the cyber units to detect and neutralise any possible online threats or misinformation campaigns that may disrupt peace, the officer said.
More than 11,000 security personnel, including those from paramilitary forces and special commandos, along with 3,000 traffic police personnel, have been deployed for the Independence Day week.
Anti-sabotage checks, vehicle barricading, and verification drives are being intensified in coordination with the intelligence agencies, officials said.
All district police units have been directed to conduct foot patrolling in the markets, metro stations, bus terminals, and other public gathering points.
Senior officers have been instructed to remain on the ground and review the security arrangements personally, said the police officer.
Independence Day 2025 Live: PM Modi greets nation on Independence Day, calls for efforts towards ‘Viksit Bharat’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the nation on Independence Day, urging citizens to work harder to fulfil the vision of the freedom fighters.
“Wishing everyone a very happy Independence Day. May this day inspire us to keep working even harder to realise the dreams of our freedom fighters and build a Viksit Bharat. Jai Hind!” he posted on X.
06:10 (IST) Aug 15
Independence Day 2025 Live: Red Fort adorned with ‘Operation Sindoor’ theme decor for celebrations
On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, security, logistical, and ceremonial preparations are underway across the country, with a mix of heightened vigilance, civic advisories, and cultural observances.
In Nagaland, security has been tightened following boycott calls from insurgent outfits NSCN/GPRN (Yung Aung) and ULFA-I, and the non-participation announcement from the 5-Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy. Authorities have deployed Nagaland Armed Police and Indian Reserve Battalions, focusing on disputed areas along the Assam–Nagaland border and the Myanmar frontier. Despite the boycott, officials expect celebrations to pass peacefully.
In Kerala, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar extended greetings to citizens, urging the preservation of democratic values and a renewed commitment to building a developed and inclusive India.
In Delhi, the Traffic Police has issued a comprehensive advisory for August 15, detailing road closures, diversions, and alternative routes around the Red Fort and central city areas between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. Commuters have been encouraged to use public transport and avoid restricted zones.
The India Meteorological Department forecasts a cloudy sky with possible light rain in the national capital on Independence Day, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C.
The Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) marked the occasion by welcoming distinguished guests from the Ayush Ministry and the medicinal plant sector. The visit included interactive sessions on yoga’s relevance, a Y-Break demonstration, and a guided tour of MDNIY facilities.
As the nation prepares for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address from the Red Fort under the theme “Naya Bharat,” authorities across states are balancing celebratory fervor with security preparedness, aiming for peaceful and inclusive observances nationwide.
NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday took a veiled dig at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) after Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded it in his Independence Day speech, saying the organisation should thank the British on completing 100 years, as “some organisations were made by them so that Bharat could be divided on religious lines.”Speaking at Janeshwar Mishra Park in Lucknow after hoisting the tricolour, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister also reminded BJP members that when the party was formed, its first national president declared its ideology to be “socialist and secular.”
Akhilesh Yadav Takes Swipe At Yogi Govt: ‘Send SDMs To Serve Food, Massage…’On Modi’s Independence Day address, in which the prime minister called RSS the “world’s biggest NGO” and praised its “very proud and glorious” journey, Yadav said: “Those who are swadeshi only by speech should become swadeshi from mind as well.” He linked the comment to trade issues, including U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, a shrinking carpet trade in Bhadohi, and India’s trade deficit with China, saying, “If someone is a foreigner in mind, then how will our business increase?”Yadav also criticised the BJP for “telling lies” on Independence Day, adding that no politics should be done on the occasion. He urged secure borders, a strong Army, and the scrapping of the Agniveer recruitment scheme, while warning that the “web of GST and fear-inducing institutions such as ED, CBI and Income Tax” was hurting trade.Referring to the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II, Yadav said that “Samajwadi people and many people in the world are against war” but that India’s defence should be robust. “We are not going to win the war by making Didi Drones,” he said, reiterating his demand to end the Agniveer system.
