&imwidth=800&imheight=600&format=webp&quality=medium "Independence Day 2025 Highlights: PM sends message to Pak, US in I-Day speech, announces Diwali gift, stresses on 'Aatmanirbharta'")
India is celebrating its 79th Independence Day today, marking a historic moment in 1947 when the country broke free from British colonial rule after nearly two centuries. This day is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters and leaders who dedicated their lives to securing India’s sovereignty. The centerpiece of the Independence Day celebrations is the national flag hoisting ceremony, held at the iconic Red Fort in Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the Tricolour at the Red Fort in front of thousands gathered at the historic site and millions watching across the country on television.
Following the flag hoisting, the Prime Minister will address the citizens of India. This speech typically reflects on the nation’s achievements, outlines future goals, and pays tribute to the heroes of the independence movement. It also serves to inspire the countrymen to work together towards the nation’s growth, harmony, and prosperity. On Independence Day eve, President Droupadi Murmu approved 127 Gallantry awards and 40 Distinguished Service awards to the armed forces and central armed police forces personnel. She addressed the nation on the eve and condemned the "cowardly and utterly inhuman" terror attack in Pahalgam that happened on April 22. She also lauded the armed forces for demonstrating "strategic clarity and technical capability" by destroying terrorist infrastructure across the border.
On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, senior military officials who played key roles in Operation Sindoor—India’s response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack—were honoured for their service. Nine Indian Air Force pilots received the Vir Chakra for their precision strikes targeting terror camps and military sites across the border. Four Indian Army personnel were also awarded the Vir Chakra for their bravery during the operation. Additionally, IAF members operating the S-400 air defence systems during the May 7–10 conflict were recognised for their vital contributions in safeguarding Indian airspace during heightened tensions.
Meanwhile, Delhi Police have issued a traffic advisory effective from 4 am to 10 am on Friday, with restrictions and diversions in place on several major roads due to Independence Day preparations. Key routes near Red Fort—such as Netaji Subhash Marg (Delhi Gate to Chatta Rail), Lothian Road (GPO Delhi to Chatta Rail), and SP Mukherjee Marg (HC Sen Marg to Yamuna Bazar Chowk)—will be off-limits to general traffic. Security has been significantly intensified citywide, with over 11,000 security personnel and 3,000 traffic officers deployed. Snipers on rooftops and increased camera surveillance will further ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations.
Across the country, Independence Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. Schools, government institutions, and communities organize cultural programs, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and parades. Major landmarks and monuments, including India Gate, Charminar, and Victoria Memorial, are illuminated in the colors of the national flag, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Warning to Pakistan: PM Modi directly addressed tensions with Pakistan and hailed Indian Defence Forces for Operation Sindoor. He slammed the nuclear threat by Pakistan and warned them of consequences if they wage a war. READ MORE
Strong stance on Indus Waters Treaty: PM Modi said that the “unfair” and “one-sided” Indus Waters Treaty will not be acceptable to India in the interest of the country and its farmers. READ MORE
Strong Message to US: He did not name the US, but sent a message to the Trump-led nation amid tariff war, reaffirming India’s stance on protecting national interests and refusing to compromise on issues like agriculture and trade. PM reaffirmed unwavering support, stating he would stand "like a wall" against any policy harming their interests. READ MORE
Diwali Gift Announcement: PM Modi has promised a Diwali gift for the citizens of the country in his speech on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day. Speaking from the ramparts of the Red Fort, he said that the next generation Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms will be a Diwali gift for the country.
Focus on 'Aatmanirbharta' (Self-Reliance): PM Modi emphasised the importance of strengthening India’s capabilities through high-quality, affordable products under the mantra "Daam Kam, Dum Zyada." Renewing his "swadeshi" push amid trade instability ushered in by US tariffs, he urged citizens to explore ways to make the country "atmanirbhar" or self-reliant across all sectors. READ MORE
First Made-in-India Chip by Year-End: PM Modi revealed that India’s first indigenous semiconductor chip will hit the market by the end of 2025, with 6 units already operational and 4 more approved. READ MORE
National Demography Mission Launched: PM announced a high-powered mission to address demographic challenges, including illegal migration. READ MORE
Sudarshan Chakra defence system: PM Modi announced Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a cutting-edge defence initiative to safeguard India’s strategic, civilian, and religious sites from potential enemy threats.
PM Modi announces employment scheme: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Aug 15) launched a new employment scheme that is aimed at creating 35 million job opportunities for youth. READ MORE
During his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of a "high-powered demography mission" aimed at addressing the growing issue of illegal migration in India. The mission will be tasked with identifying, monitoring, and formulating policies to manage demographic changes caused by unauthorised entry into the country.
PM Modi emphasised that uncontrolled illegal migration poses serious social, economic, and national security challenges. He stated that the new mission would work in coordination with state governments and central agencies to ensure data-driven, effective action while safeguarding the rights and interests of Indian citizens.
Amid ongoing tariff tensions between India and the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a strong message reaffirming his government's commitment to protecting the interests of India's agricultural community. Addressing the nation, PM Modi stated that farmers, livestock rearers, and fishermen remain a top priority for the country.
He firmly declared that he would oppose any policy that poses a threat to their livelihoods, saying, “Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them.” Stressing his unwavering stance, the Prime Minister assured that India would never make compromises when it comes to safeguarding its farmers and rural workers.
In his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the importance of boosting domestic production and moving toward complete self-reliance across all sectors. Highlighting the need for both affordability and quality, PM Modi said that India must adopt the mantra of "daam kam, dum zyada" — meaning "less cost, more value."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India’s first domestically manufactured semiconductor chip will be launched by the end of this year. Speaking during his address to the nation on the 79th Independence Day, PM Modi highlighted the progress in the semiconductor sector, stating that six manufacturing units are already operational, and approval has been granted for four more. “By year-end, chips made in India, by Indian hands, will be available in the market,” he declared, emphasising the country's strides toward technological self-reliance and the ‘Make in India’ vision.
In Independence Day speech, PM Modi promises big Diwali gift in form of next-generation GST reforms.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a "Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana" and said those getting the first job in the private sector will get Rs 15,000 from the Centre. Delivering his address to the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 79th Independence Day, PM Modi said the Rs 1 lakh crore scheme will come into effect immediately.
"50-60 years ago, the idea of semi conductors began. The trend of semiconductors that is global today, was thought about decades ago in India. But the idea died," says PM Narendra Modi
AatmanirbharBharat is the base for a developed Bharat. Dependence on others is full of pitfalls. One needs to remain cautious to remain Aatmanirbhar. Concept of Atmanirbharta not limited only to imports, exports, rupees and dollar," PM Modi said during I-Day speech
Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the nation on Independence Day from Red Fort, "India has now decided, blood and water will not flow together. 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?"
“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 said in his I-Day speech
During his address from the Red Fort on the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. He paid tribute to the victims and assured the nation that those behind the attack would not be spared. He praised the Indian soldiers for Operation Sindoor
The Prime Minister reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and praised the courage of the security forces. He emphasized that the country stands united against such acts of violence and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across all regions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the iconic Red Fort in Delhi on the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day. The ceremonial unfurling of the Tricolour was followed by the national anthem and a 21-gun salute, marking the formal start of the celebrations. Dressed in traditional attire, PM Modi saluted the nation’s spirit and achievements, standing atop the historic ramparts. Thousands of citizens, dignitaries, and schoolchildren gathered to witness the event, which was broadcast live across the country. The Prime Minister is now delivering his address to the nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the historic Red Fort in Delhi to lead the nation in celebrating India’s 79th Independence Day. His arrival marked the beginning of the official ceremonial proceedings at the iconic monument, which has been the traditional venue for the Prime Minister’s Independence Day address since 1947.
Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was received warmly by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who welcomed him at the saluting base. Senior officials from the armed forces, including the Defence Secretary and Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, were also present to receive the Prime Minister and take part in the day’s formal events.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi as India celebrates 79th Independence Day
As India celebrates 79th Independence Day, security has been significantly tightened across the national capital. Multiple layers of security have been deployed, including paramilitary forces, Delhi Police personnel, and specialised units such as anti-drone squads and sniffer dog teams.
As the nation celebrates its 79th Independence Day, iconic monuments across India have come alive with stunning tricolour illuminations. From historic landmarks to modern architectural marvels, buildings are bathed in the vibrant hues of saffron, white, and green—symbolising unity, pride, and patriotism. These dazzling displays not only light up the skyline but also evoke a deep sense of national spirit and celebration.
Every year, people often get confused about which Independence Day India is celebrating. In 2025, for example, many are unsure whether it’s the 78th or 79th.
The confusion usually comes from a simple subtraction:
2025 - 1947 = 78,
which makes people think it’s the 78th Independence Day. But that’s not accurate.
Here’s the correct way to calculate it:
India’s first Independence Day was in 1947. So, 1947 is counted as the 1st, not the 0th. That means in 2025, it will be the 79th Independence Day.
You can also use a simple formula:
(Current Year - 1947) + 1
So, (2025 - 1947) + 1 = 79
1947 = 1st Independence Day
2024 = 78th
2025 = 79th Independence Day
Always remember to add 1 after subtracting!
President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the Tatrakshak Medals on five members of the Indian Coast Guard, as announced by the Ministry of Defence on Thursday. The Tatrakshak Medal for Gallantry was awarded to Commandant Srinivas Gadam, Junior Commandant Ankit Sharma, and Rajkamal Attri in recognition of their outstanding bravery. Additionally, Inspector General Anupam Rai and Deputy Inspector General Bibhuti Ranjan received the Tatrakshak Medal for Meritorious Service, honoring their exceptional dedication and distinguished contributions to duty.
India is set to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation from the Red Fort at 7:30 AM IST. This year’s celebration, themed “Naya Bharat”, will highlight the country’s achievements and vision for the future. The event will be broadcast live on Doordarshan and streamed across official platforms, including the PIB and PMO YouTube channels.
