Independence Day 2020: PM said India must become self-reliant and use its vast natural resources.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in celebrating the 74th Independence Day by unfurling the national flag at the majestic Red Fort in Delhi.
PM paid tribute to corona warriors, those at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus pandemic, as he addressed the nation on Independence Day.
PM Modi said India must become self-reliant and use its vast natural resources to produce for the domestic as well as the global market.
"I am confident that India will realise this dream. I am confident of the abilities, confidence and potential of my fellow Indians. Once we decide to do something, we do not rest till we achieve that goal," PM said.
The event at Red Fort this year was relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the situation created by COVID-19, which has affected over 24 lakh people in the country.
In view of the situation, the general public was not been invited to the event. Instead, 1,500 corona warriors, including 500 police personnel who have recovered from the infection, attended the function in a symbol of the citizens' determination to fight the pandemic and emerge winners.
Independence Day Celebrations 2020 Highlights:
Donald Trump Jr wishes India on Independence Day
Donald Trump Jr, the son of US President Donald Trump, on Saturday extended wishes to India on Independence Day.
"Best Wishes to India on their 75th Independence Day. Grateful for all my friends there and my Indian-American friends here," Donald Trump Jr tweeted.
Independence Day: Thinner crowd at Beating retreat ceremony on Attari-Wagah border due to COVID-19
The Beating retreat ceremony was held at the Attari-Wagah Border as part of India's 74th Independence Day celebrations but the crowd was thinner due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A live musical band performance by the Border Security Force (BSF) troops was also witnessed at the border.
The beating retreat ceremony, an elaborate ritual of lowering the national flags of both the countries just before sunset, took place as it does every year.
India is celebrating the 74th Independence Day in a relatively muted manner in terms of participation of people in view of the COVID-19 crisis.
Independence Day celebrated at Kedarnath temple
The chief priest of Kedarnath temple Shankar Linga on Saturday hoisted the national flag at the temple premises on the occasion of 74th Independence Day.
The flag was hoisted at 11 thousand 700 feet above the sea level in the presence of local people and employees associated with the temple.
India is celebrating its 74th Independence Day in a relatively muted manner in terms of participation of people in view of the COVID-19 crisis.
Earlier this morning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and delivered the customary address to the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi.
Foreign Minister S Jaishankar thanks Israel, Russia, Bhutan, other countries for Independence Day wishes
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar thanked the foreign ministers of Israel, Russia, Bhutan, the Maldives and several other countries on Saturday for their wishes on India's 74th Independence Day.
Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, in a tweet, said since independence, India has strived to be, and now become, an enduring example of democracy and development for the region and the world.
Responding to his tweet, Mr Jaishankar said the relationship between India and the Maldives is a shining example of "Neighbourhood First".
The Foreign Affairs Ministry of Russia also greeted Jaishankar on India''s Independence Day.
Arvind Kejriwal invites 7 corona warriors to Independence Day function
It was a proud moment for seven COVID warriors who were invited to the Delhi government's Independence Day function, as Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal praised them for their work during the pandemic.
Arvind Kejriwal in his Independence day speech thanked the 'corona warriors'' for saving lives during the pandemic and asked the gathering to give them a big round of applause.
"Our corona warriors--doctors, nurses, paramedic staff, policemen, civil defence volunteers, sanitation workers and others--served the people without caring for their lives. You did a virtuous thing by saving lives. I greet you and thank you," he said at the function held at the Secretariat premises.
Border Security Force holds musical programme to celebrate Independence Day at Attari check post
A musical programme was organised at the Indo-Pak joint check post to mark Independence Day, officials said here on Saturday.
However, there was no one from the public to watch the programme due to a ban imposed on their entry in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
Border Security Force Director General Surjeet Singh Deswal unfurled the national flag, according to the officials.
Addressing troops, the DG said amid the coronavirus pandemic, the BSF personnel have been performing their duties on the border with honesty and sincerity.
The DG also participated in a 10-km-long ''Independence Day Walk'' with BSF personnel.
A BSF personnel was honoured with bravery award, five with President Police Medal for Distinguished Service and 46 with Service Police Medal for Meritorious Service. This year, sweets were not exchanged between between India and Pakistan, neither on Friday nor Saturday, the officials said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin Putin greets India on Independence Day
India rightfully enjoys high prestige among the international community, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said as he greeted the Indian government on the country''s 74th Independence Day.
"Kindly accept cordial congratulations on the National Holiday - the Independence Day of the Republic of India," Putin said in his congratulatory message to President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"Your country rightfully enjoys high prestige among the international community. The success achieved by India in economic, social and other spheres is widely acknowledged," he said.
Independence Day: Malagasy President Rajoelina extends greetings to India
Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina extended greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day on Saturday.
"As India celebrates its 74 years of Independence today, I wish Prime Minister@narendramodi and the people of India a very happy Independence Day. May our two nations flourish and our relationship go from strength to strength," tweeted Rajoelina.
Earlier today, world leaders such as US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, and many other world leaders wished Prime Minister Modi on 74th Independence Day.
Independence Day: Leaders of different religions hoist national flag together in Delhi
Leaders of different religions came together to hoist the national flag at the All India Imam Organisation's office in Delhi on the occasion of 74th Independence Day.
To promote unity and universal brotherhood, leaders from the Jain community, from Bangla Sahib, from All India Imam Organisation and Goswami Sushil Maharaj celebrated the occasion together.
Speaking to ANI, Chief of All India Imam Organisation, Maulana Imam Ahmed Ilyasi said, "This ceremony is a testament to the unity that our great nation has showcased as a beacon to the entire world.
Mr Ilyasi also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his message of unity during the Independence Day speech.
Independence Day: Scaled down celebrations with socially-distanced audience at Red Fort
The conspicuous absence of exuberant school children in the socially-distanced audience and a pruned guest list took some of the shine off the Independence Day event at the Red Fort which was scaled down due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Around 4,000 invites, a quarter of the usual, were issued to political leaders, officers, diplomats and others. Attendees wore masks and were seated at a distance of six feet from each other, displaying an image of the ''new normal'' in the COVID times.
School children, who would attend the event dressed in the colours of the national flag, were not present this time due to the coronavirus. Instead, 500 NCC cadets were invited to the event.
President Ram Nath Kovind hosts ''At Home'' reception on Independence Day
Independence Day celebrated in subdued manner in West Bengal
The Independence Day celebrations were subdued in West Bengal due to the COVID-19 situation.
People must do all it takes to preserve the basic principles on which this country was founded, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on the occasion of 74th Independence Day on Saturday.
She said the country has overcome many challenges and likewise would triumph over the one posed by coronavirus.
"Happy Independence Day to all my brothers and sisters. We salute all those who sacrificed their lives to make the dream of a ''free nation'' come true. Our freedom was hard-earned, and we must do all it takes to preserve the basic principles on which this country was founded," she said in a Twitter post.
Independence Day celebrated in Nagaland amid strict observance of Corona protocols
Nagaland Saturday joined the nation in celebrating the 74th Independence Day by adhering to all COVID-19 protocols of social distancing, minimal attendance and devoid of the traditional march-past and cultural presentations at the state-level function.
The main celebration at the State Secretariate Plaza had the minimum presence of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, couple of cabinet ministers, lone Rajya Sabha MP from the state, K G Kenye, senior bureaucrats, top ranking officials of the police, paramilitary and armed forces, besides a handful of head of departments.
The diginitaries wore face masks while hand sanitisers were placed at the entrance.
Independence Day: Mammoth steps taken to make country self-reliant in defence sector, Says PM
India has as much commitment to make its security apparatus and Army strong as it has for establishing peace and harmony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, stressing that mammoth steps have been taken to make the country self-reliant in the defence sector.
In his Independence Day speech, PM Modi said recently, import of more than 100 military equipment has been stopped.
"From missiles to light military helicopters, from assault rifles to transport aircraft - all will be made in India. Our Tejas is getting ready to equip itself as per the modern requirements, for putting up a show of its majesty, speed and strength," he said.
Tejas is the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft which has been also been inducted in the Indian Air Force.
PM Modi thanks world leaders for Independence Day wishes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked world leaders for extending warm greetings on the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day on Saturday.
Earlier today, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended greetings to PM Modi and the people of India stating that India has "so much to be proud of". "Wishing my very good friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi and all the people of #IncredibleIndia a joyful #IndiaIndependenceDay. You have so much to be proud of," he tweeted.
PM Modi replied to the tweet saying that the Israeli Prime Minister's ''special affection'' towards India is clearly visible.
PM Modi also thanked Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison for extending his greetings on Independence Day.
"Thank you, Australia. Thank you PM Scott Morrison. Grateful for the Independence Day wishes. Fully agree with what my friend, PM Morrison says about India-Australia friendship. May it keep growing in the years to come and, contribute to world peace and progress," PM Modi said in a reply to Morrison's tweet.PM Modi thanks world leaders for Independence Day wishes
Independence Day: WHO Chief Scientist honoured with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's special award
Chief Scientist of World Health Organisation, Soumya Swaminathan was on Saturday conferred with the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's special award, in recognition of her advisory role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.
Ms Swaminathan received the award from Chief Minister K Palaniswami on the 74th Independence Day celebration at Fort St George in Chennai.
The WHO representative has been offering suggestions to the state health department to step up measures in fighting the pandemic.
Later, speaking to reporters, Ms Swaminathan thanked the state government for selecting her and advised people to follow the pandemic protocols while venturing out.
PM Modi rues absence of children at Red Fort during Independence Day celebrations
Clad in thematic wear, every Independence Day they sit on the lawns of the Red Fort in a colourful pattern drawing the attention of the crowd, but on Saturday, school children were conspicuous by their absence at the venue.
Children are vulnerable to the coronavirus infection and so, in view of the containment measures adopted for the event, they did not take part in the celebrations this year, which were significantly scaled down due to the COVID-19 situation.
"Today, our children are not here with us. The coronavirus pandemic has halted all of us," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his address from the ramparts of the Red Fort.
Everyone felt their absence as children clap and cheer loudly throughout the event, but this time, it was a rather quiet affair in keeping with the COVID-19 safety protocols.
Independence Day: Quarantined youngsters, the 1st responders at Kerala crash site, raise tricolour
Eight quarantined youngsters, who were among the first responders to reach the Air India Express crash site in Malappuram and help evacuate passengers, did not let their seclusion come in the way of hoisting the tricolour on Independence day at one of their homes on Saturday.
A video of the youngsters, all quarantined at one of their homes, saluting the national flag hoisted in a makeshift flag post, has gone viral.
"As far as we know, this is the day when we get to hoist our national flag and salute it without any protocol issues. We didn't want to miss the opportunity even though we are under quarantine," Fazal, one of the members, told PTI.
Independence Day: Israeli President congratulates India in Hebrew
Israel President Reuven Rivlin has congratulated India on its 74th Independence Day in a video message, saying "may the deep friendship and partnership between our nations and people continue to grow and flourish".
He said that Israel and India are two ancient nations with young states. Their deep friendship is based on the shared values of democracy and freedom and shared commitment to innovation, education and development.
"In the name of the state and people of Israel, I send our warmest wishes to President Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi and the people of India on your 74th Independence Day. As we say in Hebrew ''Mazal Tov'' (congratulations). Good luck", he said.
Noida entry gate at Delhi-UP border lit up in tricolour on occasion of Independence Day
On Independence Day, PM Announces Plans For Environmental Protection
From launching projects to conserve Gangetic dolphins and Asiatic lions to making Ladakh carbon neutral, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced his government's plans in the kitty for the protection of the environment on Saturday.
Delivering his speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of the 74th Independence Day, the prime minister said, "A special campaign is being worked out to reduce pollution in 100 selected cities with a holistic approach."
Announcing big plans for Ladakh, he said, "Just like Sikkim has made its mark as an organic state, efforts are being made to make Ladakh a carbon-neutral region."
According to officials, Ladakh accounts for 0.1 per cent of the country's total emissions.
Carbon neutrality means achieving a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing it from the atmosphere in carbon sinks.
Talking about giving a push to the country's biodiversity, PM Modi announced a 10-year project to conserve the Gangetic dolphin, which was declared the national aquatic animal in 2010.
Independence Day: We have to make ''Vocal For Local'' mantra of our lives, says Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Vocal For Local" saying that people should now make it the mantra of their lives and move towards Make in India as well as Make for World.
Taking to Twitter, Mr Shah wrote, "Today, India has a leadership whose only goal and determination in life is to make India a world leader again. We now have to make #VocalForLocal the mantra of our lives under the leadership of Narendra Modi ji and move towards Make in India as well as Make for World."
"From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reiterated his resolve towards self-reliant India and the strength of the power of 130 crore Indians. Now the time has come for India to lead the world with its ability, creativity and skill. #AatmaNirbharBharat," he added.
Independence Day: Kiren Rijiju launches Fit India Youth Club to promote fitness among countrymen
On the occasion of Independence Day of the country, Union Minister of Youth and Sports Kiren Rijiju launched yet another nation-wide initiative, the Fit India Youth Club.
The Fit India Youth Club, a part of the Fit India Movement envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, endeavours to harness the power of youth to create mass awareness about the importance of fitness, across the country.
"The Fit India Youth Clubs bring together fitness and voluntarism in a unique way in which 75 lakh volunteers of Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan and National Service Scheme, along with Scouts and Guides, NCC and other youth organisations will come together to register as Fit India Youth Clubs in every block in the country, under the aegis of a district unit and each member of the club will motivate people from the community to take up fitness activities of 30 to 60 minutes in his or her daily routine," read a sports ministry release.
Indian envoy in UK hails Indian diaspora ''loving bridge'' on Independence Day
The Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Gaitri Issar Kumar, on Saturday hailed the "loving bridge" of global Indians that rallied round during the coronavirus lockdown to help fellow Indians in need as she led Independence Day celebrations in London.
Her message, which reflected on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reference to the Indian diaspora as a "Living Bridge", also highlighted the important role played by people of Indian origin as well as the Indian High Commission in London during the pandemic.
"Our countrymen and women threw open their doors and hearts to help students and others during the lockdown. This is the spirit of our diaspora, not only a Living Bridge, but also a loving one," said Ms Kumar, in a message released to mark the 74th Independence Day.
Projectors installed to live stream PM's Independence Day speech In Srinagar
Projectors were set up by the administration at two of the busiest intersections in Srinagar city for live streaming of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech on the Independence Day.
The projectors, connected to sound amplifiers, were installed at Jehangir Chowk flyover and the traffic grade separator at Tourist Reception Centre (TRC).
There is generally a heavy flow of traffic at these two intersections. However, on Saturday, security forces erected barricades and concertina wires around these intersections to prevent the movement of people.
The security personnel posted at these locations were allowing passage of only those people who were authorized to move towards Sher-e-Kashmir cricket stadium, the Independence Day celebration venue.
A person manning the projector at one of these locations said the installation of the gadgets made no sense when people are not allowed to assemble there.
Independence Day celebrations at Chief Minister Camp Office in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Advisor hoists flag
The celebrations on the 74th Independence Day were held at the Chief Minister's Camp Office in Amaravati on Saturday, where Ajeya Kallam, Chief Advisor to the CM, hoisted the national flag.
Chief Minister's Secretary Salman Arokiyaraj, Additional Secretaries K Dhananjay Reddy, J Murali, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) P Krishnamohan Reddy, other officials also participated in the celebrations.
The officials also paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, after which sweets were distributed among all the attendees, including the police officers deployed on the spot.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Mekathoti Sucharita and Irrigation Minister P Anil Kumar also marked Independence Day by hoisting flats in Nellore and Kurnool districts respectively.
Nepalese PM Oli calls up PM Modi; greets people of India on Independence Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart K P Sharma Oli held a telephonic conversation on Saturday, in the first high-level contact after ties between the two countries came under severe strain following issuance of a new political map by the Himalayan nation in May.
Mr Oli called up PM Modi and greeted the government and people of India on the country's 74th Independence Day, an official statement said.
It said Mr Oli also conveyed to Modi his congratulations for India's recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.
PM Modi offered India's continued support to Nepal in its fight against the pandemic and recalled the civilizational and cultural links that the two countries share, it said.
"The leaders expressed mutual solidarity in the context of the efforts being made to minimise the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in both countries. Prime Minister offered India's continued support to Nepal in this regard," the statement said.
Independence Day: PM Modi announces unique health ID for every Indian citizen
Announcing the National Digital Health Mission on the occasion of 74th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that a unique health ID will be provided to every citizen which will have their details of diseases, diagnosis, report, medication and so on.
Speaking from the ramparts of the Red Fort, the Prime Minister addressed the nation and highlighted the ''Atmanirbhar Bharat'' spirit of the country that has resulted in achieving self-reliance amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
In his Independence Day address to the nation, PM Modi mentioned India's strategy for the development of COVID-19 vaccine. The Prime Minister stated that scientists are working on this mission with strong determination.
In a first, women CRPF personnel deployed for security duties on Independence Day in Srinagar
For the first time, women personnel of the CRPF were deployed for security duties on Independence Day in Lal Chowk and adjoining areas of the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dressed in the camouflage combat uniform, the gun-toting women personnel of the paramilitary force were deployed in the Kothibagh police station area, mainly comprising the commercial hub of Lal Chowk and surrounding areas.
"We are from the 232 Battalion of CRPF. We have been in law and order as well as security related duties before... So this is nothing new for us," a woman constable of the CRPF, deployed at Lambert Lane on Residency Road, told PTI.
She said they do not feel any lesser than their male colleagues as they all undergo the same training.
The women CRPF personnel had arrived in the Valley as part of security arrangements for the Amarnath yatra, which was cancelled at the last moment in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
PM Modi Continues Safa Tradition; Goes For Saffron And Cream Turban
Prime Minister Narendra Modi this year went for a saffron and cream safa (head gear) for the Independence Day function at Delhi's Red Fort. Continuing with his tradition of colourful turbans, the Prime Minister today sported a safa with a long trail.
Read Here Members of Central Tibetan Administration hoisted the National Flag today on Independence Day, in Dharamshala.
"Sharing Memories": Pranab Mukherjee's Daughter Tweets His Old Independence Day Pics
Former President Pranab Mukherjee's daughter and Congress leader Sharmistha Mukherjee today shared some old pictures of the ex-president taking part in Independence Day celebrations as he "continues to be on ventilatory support", according to a hospital bulletin this morning, days after he underwent a surgery to remove a clot in his brain.
Read Here 10 Big Quotes From PM Modi's Independence Day Speech
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the national flag and delivered his seventh consecutive Independence Day speech from the iconic Red Fort this morning.
Read Here Laser Weapon Scanned Sky For Drones Near Red Fort During PM's Address
An anti-drone system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was deployed near the Red Fort on Saturday on the occasion of the 74th Independence Day, reports ANI.
Close to 75 years of our freedom, PM has unveiled the contours of building Aatmanirbhar Bharat. I also compliment him for being the PM with the fourth-longest tenure so far, says Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami hoists the National Flag at State Secretariat premises.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla hoists the National Flag at his residence.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren hoists the National Flag at Morabadi Ground.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal hoists the National Flag at Delhi Secretariat on Independence Day.
President Ram Nath Kovind pays tribute at National War Memorial on Independence Day.
"From LoC To LAC, Fitting Reply..." PM Modi's Message To Pakistan, China
India's soldiers had given a fitting reply to those who challenged the country's sovereignty "from LoC to LAC", Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said, addressing the nation on its 74th Independence Day.
Read Here Senior Congress leader AK Antony hoists the National Flag at Congress party's headquarters, today on Independence Day today. Rahul Gandhi, Ahmed Patel and KC Venugopal also present.
"Health ID For Each Indian": PM Announces National Digital Health Mission
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Digital Health Mission today, while addressing the nation from Delhi's iconic Red Fort on the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day.
Read Here Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel hoists the National Flag in Raipur, today on Independence Day.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari hoists the National Flag at his residence in Delhi.
3 Covid Vaccines At Trials, Plan For Distribution Ready: PM At Red Fort
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said three coronavirus vaccines are at different stages of trials and a roadmap is ready for production and distribution to every Indian in his Independence Day address today.
Read Here Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa hoists the National Flag at Manekshaw Parade Ground in Bengaluru.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray hoists the National Flag at Varsha Bungalow, his official residence, today on Independence Day.
10 Big Quotes From PM Modi's Independence Day SpeechPrime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the national flag and delivered his seventh consecutive Independence Day speech from the iconic Red Fort this morning. There is strict social distancing and safety measures in place as the celebrations are happening amid the coronavirus pandemic. This is PM Modi's second Independence Day Speech since he won a second term.
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Watch PM Modi's Speech On 74th Independence Day Independence Day 2020: PM Modi says 3 coronavirus vaccines at trials, plan for distribution ready
Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) jawans celebrate Independence Day at an altitude of 16,000 feet in Ladakh.
Independence Day 2020: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot hoists the National Flag at his residence in Jaipur.
Independence Day 2020: PM Modi speaks on Ram Temple
Today, Indians have chosen to be united. Peace and respect for each other is what defines us as a nation.
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Recently, the Ayodhya dispute was resolved in a peaceful and legal manner. A grand Ram temple is now being built at Lord Ram's janmasthan (birth place).
Independence Day 2020: PM Modi speaks On Defence production
Today to become atma-nirbhar in defence production is a top priority. Now, from pistols and guns to tanks and fighter jets like the Tejas, from artillery guns to missiles, everything will be made in India.
Independence Day 2020: PM Modi speaks on relations with neighbouring countries
For India, neighbours are not only ones we share a border with, but all those who have a bonding of the heart with us.
Today, India has close relations in the greater neighbourhood. We are working together and have a lot of mutual respect for each other.
ASEAN nations not just have have a great partnership with us today, but have shared values and cultures for centuries.
Independence Day 2020: PM Modi speaks on India elected unopposed to non-permanent seat of UN Security Council
Today the world stands with India, and to get 184 votes out of 192 nations in the UN for a (non-permanent) seat at the UN Security Council is a testament of it.
Independence Day 2020: PM Modi speaks on Climate Change
Climate Change is of great concern to us, and we are focusing on clean energy and solar power to take us forward and ensure that our per capita carbon foot is reduced.
We are working on mission mode to ensure that pollution levels across India drop significantly.
Independence Day 2020: PM Modi speaks on Ladakh
Ladakh too is seeing a lot of work done. Ladakh is leading the way and is focusing on becoming carbon-neutral. We are working actively with residents of Ladakh in taking new and innovative ways of development.
Here are the highlights of PM Modi's Independence Day speech:
- My fellow Indians, my best wishes to you all on Independence Day.
- Today, we are breathing in a free India because of hundreds of thousands of our freedom fighters and today's security forces, be it the army, the police or other security forces.
- We are passing through strange times... today, I don't see children here at the Red Fort because of the pandemic we are facing. We need to take adequate precautions.
- On behalf of the entire nation, I want to thank the efforts of all corona-warriors. All those healthcare workers, doctors and nurses, who have worked tirelessly to serve the nation. Many have even lost their lives. The nation salutes them.
- The day of freedom and independence is a day we remember the sacrifice of all our freedom fighters. It is a day which brings joy and hope to us all.
- As we celebrate the 74th Independence Day, we look forward to the important milestone ahead - our 75th year of Independence... and as we lead up to it, it brings new energy and determination to take the nation forward. When we reach that milestone, we shall celebrate in a grand manner.
- India faced centuries of foreign rule... all efforts were made to destroy our nation, our culture, our traditions, but they underestimated our self-belief and determination. We lived through it all and emerged victorious in the end.
- Those who were busy finding new places to put their flags, who wanted to expand their empire underestimated us. The world saw two world wars and so many nations faced immense destruction... but we rose through it all... our freedom struggle was seen by the world.
- Today, we focus on taking India to new heights... to build a new India - an atma-nirbhar (self-reliant) India. India will most certainly achieve this. History is evidence to the fact that when India is determined to achieve something, it has always done so. A self-reliant India has now become the mantra for 130 crore Indians.
- I believe in the nation, its people, our belief, our young citizens...
- We believe in Vasudev Kutumbakam - The entire world is one family.
- Today, the world looks towards India. India must grow for the world to grow. Today, we have the largest young population in the world... today's Indians are thinkers and innovators.
- How long will we export raw materials and import finished goods. Time has come that we put this cycle to an end. India must now manufacture everything it consumes... and not just that - export to the world too as we grow.
- We need to be self-reliant in the farm sector. India has recently removed all restrictions from the agri and farming sector. This will benefit our farmer brothers and sisters immensely.
- Today, we have opened up our space sector to the private sector. When India's space sector grows, our neighbours and the world benefits from it too.
- I admit that there are lakhs of challenges for India to become atma-nirbhar, and yes, there is fierce competition from the rest of the world. But I always say that if India faces lakhs of challenges, it also has 130 crore solutions.
- We have seen that when we put our mind to it, we can achieve anything. We never made PPE Kits, our production of masks and ventilators was meager... but today we are making it all.
- As we move towards our 75th year of Independence, the entire nation must take a pledge to make 'vocal for local' the mantra of the nation.
- Over the last year, with an 18% rise, FDI (foreign direct investments) have broken all past records. It is commendable that even as the world battles COVID-19, investments are pouring into India. It tells us that the world sees our potential and has hope from a rising India.
- Our foremost priority is to bring the nation out of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is restricting us from operating freely.
- For India to grow at a very fast pace, we have focused on comprehensive, multi-modal infrastructure development. No longer are we segregating rail, from road, ports from airports... it is intertwined with each other, and hence we have clubbed it all to have a holistic approach to infrastructure development.
- Be it electricity for all, gas connections for all, bank accounts for all, toilets in all homes, public sanitation for all, ration to reach all irrespective where they are, the world's largest health cover of up to 5 lakhs for many, connecting villages with the intrnet, bringing technology to small business and ration shops, giving benefits and freedom to farmers - all of it is being done at a rapid pace, and in an inclusive manner (without any bhed-bhaav).
- As said earlier, we are working to double farmers' income. Some of you may not know this, but unlike any other business, where a business man has the freedom to sell their product or service in any part of the country or the world and at a price they want, our farmers, till now, did not have that freedom. They could only sell to who they were told to sell to. Now, we have removed these restrictions, and given farmers the freedom to sell at the best price, and to who they want to.
- Another top priority for us is the Jal Jeevan mission... potable drinking water to be made available in every tap in every home. All Indians must have pure drinking water available in their taps. We are working on this on a very large scale, covering every village and every district across the nation.
- A home for every Indian is another area of focus. Every Indian should have a roof over their head, and that is a promise that we will deliver in the next few years. We are building homes for the poor and those who have a meager income.
- We have recently introduced a new education policy. This will shape the India of the 21st century. We will soon have citizens who shape a new India - ones who are global citizens, but know and understand their roots.
- The new education policy has also focused on research and development to make India a key R&D destination for the world.
- Today, we are adapting to technology at a faster pace than ever before.
- The nation has accepted new methods of transactions - digital transactions have already crossed Rs 3 lakh crore.
- In the next 1,000 days, villages across the country will have optical fibre connections available.
- Today, be it men or women, all Indians walk shoulder-to-shoulder. Today we have women officers and soldiers in the armed forces. Be it doctors, engineers, bankers, IT professionals, there isn't a sector where more and more women are contributing to India's growth in a big way.
- The healthcare sector is another that we are focusing on. Today, we are launching a National Digital Health Mission. This will bring a new revolution in the health sector.
- It will be completely technology-based.
- Every Indian will get a Health ID card. Every time you visit a doctor or a pharmacy, everything will be logged in this health card in your profile on a national scale.
- From the doctor's appointment to the medication advised, everything will be available in your health profile.
- Today, India is working on three COVID-19 vaccines, which are at different stages of trials. Once it is closer to getting final clearances, we will announce a roadmap which we have ready for distribution.
- I want to thank all the panches and sarpanches across Jammu and Kashmir, who are putting in a great effort to ensure development reaches everyone in the union territory and it progresses along with the rest of the country.
PM Narendra Modi addresses the nation from the Red Fort, on 74th Independence Day.
PM Narendra Modi unfurls the national flag at the Red Fort.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inspecting the Guard of Honour at Red Fort, on the occasion of 74th Independence Day in Delhi.
PM Modi arrives at Red Fort ahead of his Independence Day address
Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tributes at Raj Ghat.
Independence Day 2020: "Warm greetings to every Indian on the occasion of 74th Independence Day," Tweets Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Independence Day 2020: "Happy Independence Day To All Fellow Indians," Tweets PM Modi
Independence Day 2020: Rahul Gandhi Quotes India's First PM On 74th Independence Day
Independence Day 2020: Preparations On At Red Fort Ahead Of PM Modi's Address
PM Narendra Modi To Address Nation From Red Fort On 74th Independence Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the national flag and deliver his seventh consecutive Independence Day speech from the iconic Red Fort on Saturday.
According to a Defence ministry statement, the prime minister will also receive the Guard of Honour contingent, consisting of one officer and 24 men each from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Delhi Police.
Major Shweta Pandey will assist the prime minister in unfurling the National Flag.
On his arrival at 7.18 AM in front of the Lahore Gate of the Red Fort, the prime minister will be received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar.
The defence secretary will introduce the General Officer Commanding (GoC), Delhi Area, Lt Gen Vijay Kumar Mishra to the prime minister.
Read "You Have So Much To Be Proud Of": Benjamin Netanyahu To India On Independence DayIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday congratulated his Indian counterpart and a "very good friend" Narendra Modi and the people of India on the eve of the country's Independence Day, saying "you have so much to be proud of".
"Wishing my very good friend@PMOIndia@narendramodi and all the people of #IncredibleIndia a joyful #IndiaIndependenceDay.
You have so much to be proud of," the Israeli Prime Minister tweeted a day ahead of India's Independence Day and just before the onset of Sabbath when official work generally comes to a standstill in this Jewish country.
Read Here Independence Day 2020: When And Where To Watch PM Narendra Modi's SpeechPrime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver his seventh Independence Day speech from Red Fort on Saturday. The 74th Independence Day is being celebrated amid the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing protocols will be adhered to at the event in the national capital. Over 4,000 people including diplomats, officials and media personnel have been invited for the Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort. PM Modi's Independence Day speech is expected to begin at 7.30 AM after he hoists the national flag. National broadcaster
Doordarshan will telecast his speech. PM Modi's speech can also be watched live on NDTV 24*7 and NDTV India, or can be live streamed on www.ndtv.com.
PM Modi's Independence Day speech this year comes as the country is struggling with the growing number of coronavirus cases.
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