New Delhi, Aug 15: As India celebrated its 77th year of Independence on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood before the iconic Red Fort in New Delhi to address the nation. Among the various topics he touched upon, one stood out prominently – the situation in violence-stricken Manipur.
With the national flag unfurled behind him, PM Modi appealed for peace in Manipur, assuring its people that the “country is with Manipur,” and both the central and state governments are striving to restore tranquility to the troubled region.
The Prime Minister’s words echoed with the spirit of unity and empathy, as he acknowledged the challenges faced by Manipur and emphasized that resolution could only be achieved through peaceful means. This call for peace in Manipur was a significant highlight of his address, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing internal conflicts and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.
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He further remarked, “Today, we have demography, democracy, and diversity – these three together have the ability to realize the dreams of the nation.” This acknowledgment of India’s diversity and the strength it brings to the nation was a testament to the inclusivity that the government aims to uphold.
On the occasion of the 77th Independence Day, PM Modi extended his greetings to the citizens of India, paying homage to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices paved the way for the nation’s sovereignty. His message of “Best wishes on Independence Day. We pay homage to our great freedom fighters and reaffirm our commitment to fulfilling their vision. Jai Hind!” resonated with the sentiment of pride and patriotism that the day embodies.
As the nation celebrated, the focus was not only on the Prime Minister’s words but also on the extensive security arrangements put in place to ensure a safe environment for the celebrations.
Over 10,000 police personnel were deployed in Delhi alone to oversee the security around the Red Fort. Cutting-edge surveillance technology, including facial recognition cameras and anti-drone systems, was employed to maintain vigilance and ensure the safety of attendees.
The celebrations extended beyond security measures and speeches. The event at the Red Fort featured over 1,800 special guests from diverse professions – nurses, teachers, farmers, fishermen, and sarpanches of Vibrant Villages, reflecting the government’s emphasis on “Jan Bhagidari” or people’s participation. The presence of a bipartisan group of US lawmakers underscored the significance of India’s Independence Day on the global stage.
PM Modi’s choice of attire also drew attention. Sporting a vibrant Rajasthani bandhani print turban, he embraced the spirit of diversity and cultural heritage. This choice has become a tradition, with PM Modi donning colorful turbans on every Independence Day since 2014, showcasing the rich tapestry of India’s traditions and identities.
As part of the celebrations, the Har Ghar Tiranga initiative encouraged citizens to proudly display the national flag in their homes. Additionally, various selfie points across Delhi showcased the government’s initiatives and an online selfie contest conducted by the Defense Ministry on the MyGov portal engaged citizens in the festivities.
This year’s Independence Day celebrations held even greater significance as they marked the culmination of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav – an initiative launched by the central government in 2021 to commemorate 75 years of Independence. The festivities resonated not only with the spirit of freedom but also with the nation’s progress, unity, and commitment to a harmonious future.
As PM Modi’s speech concluded, the message remained clear: India’s journey towards progress and unity encompasses every corner of the nation, including Manipur. The government’s dedication to restoring peace in Manipur reflects its commitment to addressing internal challenges and fostering a harmonious environment for all its citizens. On this day, as the tricolor fluttered in the wind, the aspirations of a united and vibrant India soared high.
