Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said with the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A in Jammu and Kashmir, the dream of "One Nation, One Constitution" has been realised, as he lashed out at the opposition speaking against the move, asking if they felt it was so necessary why didn't they make it permanent in the past 70 years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said with the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A in Jammu and Kashmir, the dream of "One Nation, One Constitution" has been realised, as he lashed out at the opposition speaking against the move, asking if they felt it was so necessary why didn't they make it permanent in the past 70 years. Here are the highlights of PM Modi's Independence Day speech "We do not believe in creating problems or prolonging them. In less than 70 days of the new Government, Article 370 has become history, and in both Houses of Parliament, 2/3rd of the members supported this step We want to serve Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh," the PM said. Modi also told the nation that it was essential for his government to establish a Jal Shakti Ministry, as nearly half of the households in the nation do not have piped water connection. "India understands the importance of water conservation and thus, a new ministry for Jal Shakti has been created. Steps have been taken to make the medical sector even more people-friendly," he said. Modi said he has also cracked down on sections of the bureaucracy which sought a delay in implementation of projects and were allegedly involved in graft. "Such officers were told to leave now. Now the nation wants to develop on a fast speed. There is no place for them to obstruct the pace of development," he said, referring to the recent orders issued by his government to forcefully retire officials under various Ministries. On black money and corruption, Modi said his government is continuously striving towards eliminating the menace and extract the money illicitly hoarded by corrupt individuals and firms. Modi also reiterated his vision of "ease of doing business", claiming that his government has been constantly removing obsolete laws which serve no purpose than to embroil entrepreneurs in red tape. "I always ask this question..can we not reduce the interference of Governments in people's lives? Let our people have the freedom to follow their own aspirations. We have abolished a lot of laws," he said. The Prime Minister further added that he would like to move beyond ease of doing business. "The government wants to provide of 'ease of living' to the people," he added. Linking the adverse living standard to the "population explosion", Modi said the need of the hour is to have a greater discussion and awareness on family size. Those who restrict the number of offsprings are actually doing a service to the nation, the PM further said. "Population explosion in the country will create various problems for the coming generations. Those who follow the policy of small family also contribute to the development of the nation, it is also a form of patriotism," he said.

PM Modi's sixth Independence-Day speech: Highlights

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said making local products more attractive will boost India's credentials as an export hub and asserted that 'Zero Defect, Zero Effect' — high-quality, eco-friendly products — will be the guiding principle in this process.

Modi also asserted that making India a 5 trillion dollar economy is not difficult if everyone citizen strives for it.

"Time has come to think about how we can boost exports. Every district of India has so much to offer, therefore, there is a need to make local products attractive. This may help in the emergence of export hubs. Our guiding principle is Zero Defect, Zero Effect," said Prime Minister Modi while addressing the nation from the Red Fort on the 73rd Independence Day.

"Why shouldn't we think of becoming an export hub? Every region in India has its own unique products, indigenous handicraft and its own handloom. Why can't we utilise all this to provide India the impetus for becoming an exporting nation?" he asked.

Stressing that world is eager to trade with India, the Prime Minister said, "Today, the government is stable and policy system is predictable. We are putting all efforts to keep prices under check and speed up development. The fundamentals of our economy are strong."

Modi also emphasised on the Centre's mission of making India a 5 trillion dollar economy.

"Everyone is thinking how will we move forward? Who will we develop? To what extent can we develop? Fulfilling the dream of five trillion dollar economy is the answer to it. This target can be achieved if every citizen starts contributing to the nation. It is not difficult if everyone strives for it."

Prime Minister took a jibe at the previous UPA government and said India became a two trillion dollars economy in the last 70 years while one trillion dollars was added in the last five years.

"In the last 70 years we became a two trillion dollar economy, but in the last five years, we added one trillion dollars to the economy. This gives me the confidence of becoming a five trillion dollar economy in the coming years," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said making local products more attractive will boost India's credentials as an export hub and asserted that 'Zero Defect, Zero Effect' — high-quality, eco-friendly products — will be the guiding principle in this process.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said making local products more attractive will boost India's credentials as an export hub and asserted that 'Zero Defect, Zero Effect' — high-quality, eco-friendly products — will be the guiding principle in this process. Modi also asserted that making India a 5 trillion dollar economy is not difficult if everyone citizen strives for it. "Time has come to think about how we can boost exports. Every district of India has so much to offer, therefore, there is a need to make local products attractive. This may help in the emergence of export hubs. Our guiding principle is Zero Defect, Zero Effect," said Prime Minister Modi while addressing the nation from the Red Fort on the 73rd Independence Day. "Why shouldn't we think of becoming an export hub? Every region in India has its own unique products, indigenous handicraft and its own handloom. Why can't we utilise all this to provide India the impetus for becoming an exporting nation?" he asked. Stressing that world is eager to trade with India, the Prime Minister said, "Today, the government is stable and policy system is predictable. We are putting all efforts to keep prices under check and speed up development. The fundamentals of our economy are strong." Modi also emphasised on the Centre's mission of making India a 5 trillion dollar economy. "Everyone is thinking how will we move forward? Who will we develop? To what extent can we develop? Fulfilling the dream of five trillion dollar economy is the answer to it. This target can be achieved if every citizen starts contributing to the nation. It is not difficult if everyone strives for it." Prime Minister took a jibe at the previous UPA government and said India became a two trillion dollars economy in the last 70 years while one trillion dollars was added in the last five years. "In the last 70 years we became a two trillion dollar economy, but in the last five years, we added one trillion dollars to the economy. This gives me the confidence of becoming a five trillion dollar economy in the coming years," he said.

Dream of 5 trillion dollar economy not difficult if everyone strives for it: PM Modi

Addressing the nation on 73rd Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said several crucial legislations were passed within 10 weeks of the formation of his second government, including abrogation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, ban on the practice of Triple Talaq and changes in anti-terror laws.

Modi said that repeal of <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/removal-of-article-370-step-towards-fulfilling-sardar-patels-dreams-pm-modi-243071">Article 370 and Article 35A</a> was a step towards fulfilling the dream of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's of a strong and united India.

"The new government has not completed even 10 weeks, but in this short period in every sector we have taken important steps. This includes decisions for Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, the end of Triple Talaq, steps for the welfare of farmers and traders and changes in anti-terror law. Article 370 and 35A being revoked is a step towards realizing the dream of Sardar Patel," he said.

Referring to the abrogation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister said that his government did it in just 70 days of its formation.

"In less than 70 days of the new government, Article 370 has become history, and in both Houses of Parliament, 2/3rd of the members supported this step. We want to serve Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh. We do not believe in creating problems or prolonging them," he said.

Modi said that "the old arrangement" in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh encouraged corruption, nepotism and there was injustice when it came to rights of women, children, Dalits, tribal communities.

In a veiled attack on the Congress for its opposition to government's decision of repealing Article 370, Modi said the nation is today questioning them.

"Those who supported Article 370, India is asking them- If this was so important and life changing, why was this Article not made permanent. After all, those people had large mandates and could have removed the temporary status of Article 370," said the Prime Minister.

Before starting his address, Modi unfurled the national flag at the ramparts of Red Fort and wished citizens of the country on the occasion of 73rd Independence Day and Rakshabandhan.

Addressing the nation on 73rd Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said several crucial legislations were passed within 10 weeks of the formation of his second government, including abrogation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, ban on the practice of Triple Talaq and changes in anti-terror laws.

Addressing the nation on 73rd Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said several crucial legislations were passed within 10 weeks of the formation of his second government, including abrogation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, ban on the practice of Triple Talaq and changes in anti-terror laws. Modi said that repeal of Article 370 and Article 35A was a step towards fulfilling the dream of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's of a strong and united India. "The new government has not completed even 10 weeks, but in this short period in every sector we have taken important steps. This includes decisions for Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, the end of Triple Talaq, steps for the welfare of farmers and traders and changes in anti-terror law. Article 370 and 35A being revoked is a step towards realizing the dream of Sardar Patel," he said. Referring to the abrogation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister said that his government did it in just 70 days of its formation. "In less than 70 days of the new government, Article 370 has become history, and in both Houses of Parliament, 2/3rd of the members supported this step. We want to serve Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh. We do not believe in creating problems or prolonging them," he said. Modi said that "the old arrangement" in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh encouraged corruption, nepotism and there was injustice when it came to rights of women, children, Dalits, tribal communities. In a veiled attack on the Congress for its opposition to government's decision of repealing Article 370, Modi said the nation is today questioning them. "Those who supported Article 370, India is asking them- If this was so important and life changing, why was this Article not made permanent. After all, those people had large mandates and could have removed the temporary status of Article 370," said the Prime Minister. Before starting his address, Modi unfurled the national flag at the ramparts of Red Fort and wished citizens of the country on the occasion of 73rd Independence Day and Rakshabandhan.

In less than 70 days of new government, Article 370 is history: PM in Independence Day speech

Encouraging family planning to prevent population explosion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said there is a need to think whether one can fulfil aspirations and dreams of their children or not.

"Today, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, I want to address the issue of population explosion in the country. In our country, parents now need to give serious thought to whether they will be able to fulfil their children's dreams and aspirations. There is a need to have greater discussion and awareness on population explosion," said Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the nation on 73rd Independence Day from the Red Fort.

"If you do proper family planning then you will naturally see that a smaller family can be happier, healthier and more content. The family will remain free from diseases with more resources," he said.

Stressing that both Centre and state government should join hands to deal with the population explosion, Prime Minister said a small family can contribute to nation-building as the country needs a healthy and educated society.

"There is one section in our society who believes in family planning and we are thankful to them. They meet all the requirements of their children. Our children's future cannot rely on society. Through family planning one can show their love for the nation... it is true patriotism. We need to respect such families," Modi said.

"In the 21st century, we as citizens of this country need to understand that development and prosperity begin only when individuals are healthy and resourceful. As there are so many illnesses around efforts cannot just be at the government level. Everyone has to contribute," he added.

Encouraging family planning to prevent population explosion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said there is a need to think whether one can fulfil aspirations and dreams of their children or not.

Encouraging family planning to prevent population explosion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said there is a need to think whether one can fulfil aspirations and dreams of their children or not. "Today, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, I want to address the issue of population explosion in the country. In our country, parents now need to give serious thought to whether they will be able to fulfil their children's dreams and aspirations. There is a need to have greater discussion and awareness on population explosion," said Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the nation on 73rd Independence Day from the Red Fort. "If you do proper family planning then you will naturally see that a smaller family can be happier, healthier and more content. The family will remain free from diseases with more resources," he said. Stressing that both Centre and state government should join hands to deal with the population explosion, Prime Minister said a small family can contribute to nation-building as the country needs a healthy and educated society. "There is one section in our society who believes in family planning and we are thankful to them. They meet all the requirements of their children. Our children's future cannot rely on society. Through family planning one can show their love for the nation... it is true patriotism. We need to respect such families," Modi said. "In the 21st century, we as citizens of this country need to understand that development and prosperity begin only when individuals are healthy and resourceful. As there are so many illnesses around efforts cannot just be at the government level. Everyone has to contribute," he added.

PM Narendra Modi encourages family planning to prevent population explosion

Congratulatory messages have been sent from the US, Russia and Israel on India's Independence Day with the US calling India a global power with which it has close ties and Russia saying New Delhi enjoys authority in the international arena.&nbsp;

While talking about the "shared democratic values, strong people-to-people ties", US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo said, "The&nbsp;United States and India have enjoyed close ties of friendship since the US-supported India’s independence 72 years ago."

He added, "Over the past two decades, our friendship has flourished into a strategic partnership, and we now cooperate on a range of important issues, from defence and counterterrorism to freedom of navigation and cutting-edge science, including in space." 
&nbsp; 
Pompeo who was on a 3-day India visit earlier this year reiterated that "The United States and India are great democracies, global powers, and good friends".

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent Independence day message to President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Putin in his letter to Indian leadership said New Delhi "enjoys high authority in the international arena" and "Russian-Indian relations are dynamically developed in the spirit of special and privileged strategic partnership"

He said, India Russia joint efforts "fully meets the interests of people of our countries and goes in line with the task of ensuring stability and security in Asia and the entire world"

PM Modi will be meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in the far eastern Russian city of Vladivostok next month for Eastern Economic Forum.

Israeli Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweeted a video of himself in which he said that ties with India are "not merely cooperation anymore, it is Genuine Friendship."

In the video, he said," To My friend PM Modi and people of Indian. Namaste. Happy Independence day. The relations between India and Israel is like never before. It is not merely cooperation anymore, it is genuine friendship. Happy friendship day".

Wishes poured in from the country's neighbourhood as well.&nbsp;

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Bhutan PM Dr Lotay Tshering also sent messages to PM Modi on the occasion of Independence day to which PM thanked them and talked about New Delhi's deep ties between the respective countries.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congratulatory messages have been sent from the US, Russia and Israel on India's Independence Day with the US calling India a global power with which it has close ties and Russia saying New Delhi enjoys authority in the international arena.

Congratulatory messages have been sent from the US, Russia and Israel on India's Independence Day with the US calling India a global power with which it has close ties and Russia saying New Delhi enjoys authority in the international arena. While talking about the "shared democratic values, strong people-to-people ties", US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo said, "The United States and India have enjoyed close ties of friendship since the US-supported India’s independence 72 years ago." He added, "Over the past two decades, our friendship has flourished into a strategic partnership, and we now cooperate on a range of important issues, from defence and counterterrorism to freedom of navigation and cutting-edge science, including in space." Pompeo who was on a 3-day India visit earlier this year reiterated that "The United States and India are great democracies, global powers, and good friends". Russian President Vladimir Putin sent Independence day message to President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Putin in his letter to Indian leadership said New Delhi "enjoys high authority in the international arena" and "Russian-Indian relations are dynamically developed in the spirit of special and privileged strategic partnership" He said, India Russia joint efforts "fully meets the interests of people of our countries and goes in line with the task of ensuring stability and security in Asia and the entire world" PM Modi will be meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in the far eastern Russian city of Vladivostok next month for Eastern Economic Forum. Israeli Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweeted a video of himself in which he said that ties with India are "not merely cooperation anymore, it is Genuine Friendship." In the video, he said," To My friend PM Modi and people of Indian. Namaste. Happy Independence day. The relations between India and Israel is like never before. It is not merely cooperation anymore, it is genuine friendship. Happy friendship day". Wishes poured in from the country's neighbourhood as well. Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Bhutan PM Dr Lotay Tshering also sent messages to PM Modi on the occasion of Independence day to which PM thanked them and talked about New Delhi's deep ties between the respective countries.

US, Russia, Israel congratulate India on Independence Day; call New Delhi a global power with high authority

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to focus on the theme of 'New India' in his address to the nation on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-ram-nath-kovind-to-address-nation-on-eve-of-73rd-independence-day-242814">73rd Independence Day on Thursday.</a>

To mark what will be his sixth consecutive address to the nation, 3,500 girl students drawn from 41 government schools in the national capital, 5,000 boys and 700 NCC cadets of 17 schools will display &nbsp;'strength in unity' by the formation of words, 'Naya Bharat' (New India).

"On this festival of national fervour, 3,500 girl students drawn from 41 government schools in Delhi; 5,000 boy spectators and 700 NCC cadets (Army, Navy and Air Force) of 17 schools, through their willing and committed presence will display 'strength in unity' by the formation of words Naya Bharat," read a statement from the Ministry of Defence on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Modi will lead the nation in celebrating the 73rd Independence Day at the iconic Red Fort in the national capital on Thursday.&nbsp;

He will unfurl the National Flag and deliver the customary address to the nation from the ramparts of the monument.

On his arrival at the Lahore Gate of Red Fort, the Prime Minister will be received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State (MoS) for Defence Shripad Naik and Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra, the statement read.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-confirms-mark-esper-as-secretary-of-defense-238023">The Defence Secretary </a>will introduce the General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Asit Mistry to the Prime Minister.

&nbsp;The GoC Delhi Area will then conduct the Prime Minister to the Saluting Base where a combined Inter-Services and Police Guards will present a general salute to Prime Minister Modi.

Thereafter, he will inspect the Guard of Honour, the statement added.

The Guard of Honour contingent for the Prime Minister will consist of one officer and 24 men each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police.&nbsp;

The Guard of Honour will be positioned directly in front of the National Flag across the moat below the ramparts.&nbsp;

With the Air Force being the coordinating Service this year, the Guard of Honour will be commanded by Wing Commander Anuj Bharadwaj.&nbsp;

Army contingent in the Prime Minister's Guard will be commanded by Major Laishram Tony Singh, the Navy contingent by Lieutenant Commander Prashanth Prabhakar, while Squadron Leader S B Gowda will lead the Air Force contingent and the Delhi Police contingent by Additional DCP Bikram HM Meena.

The Army contingent for Prime Minister`s Guard is drawn from the 2 Garhwal Rifles. The 2nd Battalion of Garhwal Rifles was raised on March 1, 1901, at Lansdown, the statement read.

"During World War I, Rifleman Gabar Singh Negi of 2 Garhwal Rifles was awarded Victoria Cross (Posthumously), the highest gallantry award possible in the Royal Indian Army.&nbsp;

The battalion was conferred with ten Battle Honours in World War I. The saga of bravery continued for the brave Garhwalis during World War II wherein they were conferred with the Battle Honour Kuantan Malaya.&nbsp;

The Battalion suffered heavy causalities during World War II and was re-raised on May 11, 1946, at Yol Cantt in Himachal Pradesh," it stated.

Post-independence, the Battalion actively participated in the 1965 Indo-Pak War, wherein it was tasked to capture the famous OP Hill on October 3, 1965.&nbsp;

Two Officers, one JCO and 19 other ranks attained martyrdom during the operation and the Battalion was awarded one Mahavir Chakra and two Sena Medals, the Defence Ministry statement stated.

The Battalion was awarded the Chief of Army Staff Unit Citation and General-Office Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Unit Citation for its exemplary tenure in the Kashmir Valley as part of Operation `Rakshak` from May 1994 to September 1996.

During its tenure in Akhnoor sector of Jammu and Kashmir from September 2010 to November 2013, the outstanding achievements of the battalion were once again recognised as it received a citation of General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Unit.

After inspecting the Guard of Honour, the Prime Minister will proceed to the ramparts of the Red Fort where he will be greeted by Rajnath Singh, Shripad Naik, Chief of Army Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh.

The GOC Delhi area will conduct the Prime Minister to the dais to unfurl the National Flag.

The Indian Air Force band will play the National Anthem when the National Guard presents 'Rashtriya Salute' while the Prime Minister unfurls the National Flag.

&nbsp;All Service personnel in uniform will stand and salute.&nbsp; 
The Band will be commanded by Junior Warrant Officer Pankaj Babu.&nbsp;

Flying Officer Preetam Sangwan will assist the Prime Minister in the unfurling of the National Flag.

Two Air Force Officers, Flight Lieutenant Jyoti Yadav and Flight Lieutenant Mansi Geda will be positioned on either side of the saluting dais for Prime Minister Modi for ADC duties.

The unfurling of the national flag will synchronise with the 21 Gun Salute fired by the valiant gunners of the elite 2233 Field Battery (Ceremonial).&nbsp;

The ceremonial battery will be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel C Sandeep and the Gun Position Officer will be Regiment Havildar Major Kolate Rajesh Sripati.

The National Flag Guard comprising 32 men and one officer each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police will present Rashtriya Salute at the time of unfurling of the National Flag by the Prime Minister.&nbsp;

Wing Commander Kunal Khanna from Indian Air Force will be in command of this Inter-Services Guard and Police Guard.

The Naval Contingent for the National Flag Guard will be commanded by Lieutenant Commander Satwinder Singh, the Army contingent by Major Surya Prakash, Air Force contingent by Squadron Leader Ravindra and Delhi Police contingent by Additional DCP Rohit Rajvir Singh.

The Army contingent for the National Flag Guard is drawn from the 5th Battalion of the First Gorkha Rifles.&nbsp;

The Battalion had a prestigious opportunity to serve in the United Nations Mission in Sudan from 2008 to 2009. The Battalion is presently performing the duty of Ceremonial Army Guard to the President of India.

After unfurling the National Flag, Prime Minister Modi will address the nation.&nbsp;

After the Prime Minister's address, school children and NCC Cadets will sing the National Anthem.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to focus on the theme of 'New India' in his address to the nation on 73rd Independence Day on Thursday. To mark what will be his sixth consecutive address to the nation, 3,500 girl students drawn from 41 government schools in the national capital, 5,000 boys and 700 NCC cadets of 17 schools will display 'strength in unity' by the formation of words, 'Naya Bharat' (New India).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to focus on the theme of 'New India' in his address to the nation on 73rd Independence Day on Thursday. To mark what will be his sixth consecutive address to the nation, 3,500 girl students drawn from 41 government schools in the national capital, 5,000 boys and 700 NCC cadets of 17 schools will display 'strength in unity' by the formation of words, 'Naya Bharat' (New India). "On this festival of national fervour, 3,500 girl students drawn from 41 government schools in Delhi; 5,000 boy spectators and 700 NCC cadets (Army, Navy and Air Force) of 17 schools, through their willing and committed presence will display 'strength in unity' by the formation of words Naya Bharat," read a statement from the Ministry of Defence on Wednesday. Prime Minister Modi will lead the nation in celebrating the 73rd Independence Day at the iconic Red Fort in the national capital on Thursday. He will unfurl the National Flag and deliver the customary address to the nation from the ramparts of the monument. On his arrival at the Lahore Gate of Red Fort, the Prime Minister will be received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State (MoS) for Defence Shripad Naik and Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra, the statement read. The Defence Secretary will introduce the General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Asit Mistry to the Prime Minister. The GoC Delhi Area will then conduct the Prime Minister to the Saluting Base where a combined Inter-Services and Police Guards will present a general salute to Prime Minister Modi. Thereafter, he will inspect the Guard of Honour, the statement added. The Guard of Honour contingent for the Prime Minister will consist of one officer and 24 men each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police. The Guard of Honour will be positioned directly in front of the National Flag across the moat below the ramparts. With the Air Force being the coordinating Service this year, the Guard of Honour will be commanded by Wing Commander Anuj Bharadwaj. Army contingent in the Prime Minister's Guard will be commanded by Major Laishram Tony Singh, the Navy contingent by Lieutenant Commander Prashanth Prabhakar, while Squadron Leader S B Gowda will lead the Air Force contingent and the Delhi Police contingent by Additional DCP Bikram HM Meena. The Army contingent for Prime Minister`s Guard is drawn from the 2 Garhwal Rifles. The 2nd Battalion of Garhwal Rifles was raised on March 1, 1901, at Lansdown, the statement read. "During World War I, Rifleman Gabar Singh Negi of 2 Garhwal Rifles was awarded Victoria Cross (Posthumously), the highest gallantry award possible in the Royal Indian Army. The battalion was conferred with ten Battle Honours in World War I. The saga of bravery continued for the brave Garhwalis during World War II wherein they were conferred with the Battle Honour Kuantan Malaya. The Battalion suffered heavy causalities during World War II and was re-raised on May 11, 1946, at Yol Cantt in Himachal Pradesh," it stated. Post-independence, the Battalion actively participated in the 1965 Indo-Pak War, wherein it was tasked to capture the famous OP Hill on October 3, 1965. Two Officers, one JCO and 19 other ranks attained martyrdom during the operation and the Battalion was awarded one Mahavir Chakra and two Sena Medals, the Defence Ministry statement stated. The Battalion was awarded the Chief of Army Staff Unit Citation and General-Office Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Unit Citation for its exemplary tenure in the Kashmir Valley as part of Operation `Rakshak` from May 1994 to September 1996. During its tenure in Akhnoor sector of Jammu and Kashmir from September 2010 to November 2013, the outstanding achievements of the battalion were once again recognised as it received a citation of General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Unit. After inspecting the Guard of Honour, the Prime Minister will proceed to the ramparts of the Red Fort where he will be greeted by Rajnath Singh, Shripad Naik, Chief of Army Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh. The GOC Delhi area will conduct the Prime Minister to the dais to unfurl the National Flag. The Indian Air Force band will play the National Anthem when the National Guard presents 'Rashtriya Salute' while the Prime Minister unfurls the National Flag. All Service personnel in uniform will stand and salute. The Band will be commanded by Junior Warrant Officer Pankaj Babu. Flying Officer Preetam Sangwan will assist the Prime Minister in the unfurling of the National Flag. Two Air Force Officers, Flight Lieutenant Jyoti Yadav and Flight Lieutenant Mansi Geda will be positioned on either side of the saluting dais for Prime Minister Modi for ADC duties. The unfurling of the national flag will synchronise with the 21 Gun Salute fired by the valiant gunners of the elite 2233 Field Battery (Ceremonial). The ceremonial battery will be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel C Sandeep and the Gun Position Officer will be Regiment Havildar Major Kolate Rajesh Sripati. The National Flag Guard comprising 32 men and one officer each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police will present Rashtriya Salute at the time of unfurling of the National Flag by the Prime Minister. Wing Commander Kunal Khanna from Indian Air Force will be in command of this Inter-Services Guard and Police Guard. The Naval Contingent for the National Flag Guard will be commanded by Lieutenant Commander Satwinder Singh, the Army contingent by Major Surya Prakash, Air Force contingent by Squadron Leader Ravindra and Delhi Police contingent by Additional DCP Rohit Rajvir Singh. The Army contingent for the National Flag Guard is drawn from the 5th Battalion of the First Gorkha Rifles. The Battalion had a prestigious opportunity to serve in the United Nations Mission in Sudan from 2008 to 2009. The Battalion is presently performing the duty of Ceremonial Army Guard to the President of India. After unfurling the National Flag, Prime Minister Modi will address the nation. After the Prime Minister's address, school children and NCC Cadets will sing the National Anthem.

PM Modi likely to focus on 'New India' in his address to nation on Independence Day

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PM Modi's sixth Independence-Day speech: Highlights

Dream of 5 trillion dollar economy not difficult if everyone strives for it: PM Modi

In less than 70 days of new government, Article 370 is history: PM in Independence Day speech

PM Narendra Modi encourages family planning to prevent population explosion

US, Russia, Israel congratulate India on Independence Day; call New Delhi a global power with high authority

PM Modi likely to focus on 'New India' in his address to nation on Independence Day