Independence Day 2024 LIVE UPDATES: PM Modi hoists national flag at Red Fort, addresses nation on 78th Swatantrata Diwas

Independence Day 2024 LIVE UPDATES: Today marks India’s 78th Independence Day. This year’s Independence Day theme is ‘Viksit Bharat or Developed India’. This theme represents the government’s commitment to transforming India and reflects its vision of a developed nation by 2047 when India will celebrate its 100th year of independence from colonial rule.

As Independence Day celebrations begin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoists the national flag and addresses the country from the ramparts of the Red Fort. 

It is PM Modi’s 11th consecutive address to the nation, and his first after returning to power for the third time. He is also the third prime minister to address the nation from the Red Fort, succeeding Jawaharlal Nehru and his daughter Indira Gandhi. 

India gained independence from the British colonial rulers after a long struggle on August 15, 1947.  Today, we honour the freedom fighters who fought for our country’s independence. Several significant buildings across the country are lit up in the colours of the flag. Every year, it is celebrated by hoisting the national flag and singing the national anthem. People carry out cultural programs and seminars to honour the freedom fighters who gave their lives for the freedom of India.