On August 15, 2025, the Red Fort in New Delhi became a vivid stage for the nation’s aspirations as Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the 79th Independence Day celebrations, centered on the theme of “New India.” This year’s event reflected the government’s vision of achieving Viksit Bharat — a fully developed India — by 2047.
The morning began with PM Modi receiving a warm welcome from senior defense leaders, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. After inspecting a Guard of Honour comprising 96 personnel, Modi proceeded to the ramparts, assisted by Flying Officer Rashika Sharma in unfurling the National Flag. The moment was marked by a ceremonial flower shower, followed by the National Anthem sung by NCC cadets and My India volunteers.
In his address, Modi outlined his vision for a prosperous, secure, and empowered nation. Below on Gyanpath, 2,500 cadets from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, alongside My India volunteers, formed a massive “New India” logo — a symbolic representation of the country’s unity, discipline, and forward momentum.
Inclusivity was a defining element of the day. The audience featured individuals from varied walks of life: top-performing farmers recognized under the Medicinal Plants Conservation Scheme, village leaders from open-defecation-free-plus communities, entrepreneurs from the PM Van Dhan Yojana, and outstanding students from programs like PM-Daksh, Shreyas, and Shrestha. High-achieving interns from the Prime Minister’s Internship Programme and sanitation workers honored for their dedication to cleanliness were also part of the gathering.
The celebrations embraced India’s cultural diversity, with more than 1,500 participants dressed in traditional attire from different states. Tribal children from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands added a vibrant touch, representing the nation’s indigenous heritage.
From the ceremonial precision of the armed forces to the colorful showcase of regional traditions, the event at Red Fort stood as a powerful testament to India’s evolving identity — rooted in history yet focused on an ambitious, inclusive future. As Modi’s message echoed over the centuries-old fort walls, the celebrations embodied the spirit of a nation determined to meet its 2047 goals with unity, pride, and resilience.
