On India’s 79th Independence Day, the Red Fort celebrations in New Delhi paid a grand tribute to the success of Operation Sindoor, blending tradition with new milestones. For the first time, 11 Agniveer musicians joined the Indian Air Force band to play the national anthem — a powerful symbol of the younger generation’s role in national service.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the national flag from the historic ramparts, two Mi-17 helicopters flew overhead. One carried the Tricolor, while the other bore the Operation Sindoor flag. Both aircraft showered flower petals onto the crowd, sparking emotional waves of pride among thousands gathered below.
The Operation Sindoor logo was visible across the event — from floral arrangements to the official invitations and even the stage backdrop — ensuring the mission’s significance was central to the celebration.
The flag-raising was accompanied by a resounding 21-gun salute, delivered with indigenous 105mm light field guns operated by the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial), reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The national flag was flanked by 128 personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police, while a Guard of Honour of 96 service members showcased military precision.
The Air Force band, under the direction of a Junior Commissioned Officer and supported by 25 musicians, delivered a stirring rendition of the national anthem. The inclusion of Agniveers in this elite performance marked a first in the ceremony’s history.
Prime Minister Modi’s special invitees filled the grounds with representation from all walks of life — medal-winning athletes from the Special Olympics 2025, champion farmers, innovative entrepreneurs, sanitation workers, Anganwadi staff, rehabilitated laborers, writers, and tribal children.
Cultural diversity was on full display as 1,500 participants from different states and union territories attended in traditional attire. Leading up to the event, thousands nationwide had engaged in competitions — from essays and paintings to social media reels and online quizzes on Operation Sindoor and national security — with 1,000 quiz winners also present.
In a first, the patriotic celebrations extended beyond the morning ceremony. Bands from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, NCC, and Assam Rifles were scheduled to perform across more than 140 locations nationwide, filling the evening air with melodies of national pride.
