PM Modi Bats For UCC, Stresses on Speedy Probe in Crime Against Women in I-Day Speech | Highlights

Independence Day 2024: "I extend my greetings to the entire nation on the occasion of Independence Day. I hope that India continues to develop and the democracy continues to get strengthened in the country," said Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis earlier today. 
 

The Indian diaspora celebrates India’s 78th Independence Day at Times Square in New York City.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his spouse Sudesh Dhankhar and other leaders attended the 'At Home' reception hosted by President Droupadi Murmu on the occasion of Independence Day at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

"Special moments from the Red Fort this morning, where we marked Independence Day," posts PM Modi

Four-legged soldiers participate in the Beating Retreat ceremony at the Attari-Wagah border in Punjab's Amritsar, on the occasion of Independence Day

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni congratulates India on its 78th Independence Day.

Addressing Independence Day celebrations at the Supreme Court, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal says, " We are in the 75th year since the Constitution was implemented, this time has been named as 'Amrit Kaal' by PM Modi...The Constitution is above everything...if everybody understands this, our country will definitely become ‘Viksit Bharat’".

MP and Andhra Pradesh BJP President Daggubati Purandeswari participated in the Independence Day celebration at the BJP Vijayawada office. 

MP and Andhra Pradesh BJP President Daggubati Purandeswari says, "I wish a very happy Independence Day to all the countrymen. Today the country has completed 77 years of Independence. To achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat, it is very important to achieve the goal of Viksit Andhra Pradesh".
 

The Border Security Force (BSF) marked Independence Day with a special celebration at the zero point of the Indo-Pak border in Nadabet, Gujarat. This remote area in Banaskantha became the center of national pride as BSF personnel gathered to honor the occasion.

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria attended the 78th Independence Day celebrations in Chandigarh. The event was marked by patriotic fervor as the Governor joined in the festivities, honoring the nation’s journey to independence.

 Emphasising the importance of freedom and liberty, Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud on Thursday noted that the recent events in neighbouring Bangladesh remind the value of these rights.

Speaking to mediapersons after hoisting the national flag in the Supreme Court premises here, Chandrachud said Independence Day reminds us of the duties the country's people have towards each other and the nation in realising all the values of the Constitution.

"What is happening today, say, in Bangladesh is a clear reminder of how precious liberty is for us. It is very easy to take freedom and liberty for granted but it is important to understand the past stories to remind us how important these things are," he said.

The CJI's remarks came amid mounting concerns in India over widespread incidents of attacks on the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh after prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled on August 5 following weeks of violent unrest.

 The BJP said on Thursday Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address has mapped India's transformation in the last 10 years of his government and outlined the steps to make it a global powerhouse.

The BJP also cited B R Ambedkar's remarks at the constituent assembly to rebut the Congress' criticism of Modi's call for a uniform civil code as a "gross insult" to the makers of the Constitution.

In a post on X, Home Minister Amit Shah said Modi's address cast "a panoramic view of a radiant future on the horizon" and also instilled in Bharat the power of the unwavering belief that it can achieve the goal.

He said, "Over the last 10 years, Bharat has charted a journey of self-transformation through course corrections. It is a new Bharat with citizen-driven governance. It is a new Bharat that firmly believes that 140 crore citizens can certainly achieve the greatness, prosperity and progress they deserve." BJP president J P Nadda said Modi's address reflected India's progress and future aspirations. In his speech, he outlined a series of ambitious goals aimed at driving the nation's growth and establishing India as a global superpower across various sectors, Nadda said.

"Reflecting on the progress made over the last 10 years, PM Modi emphasised the nation's achievements and reiterated the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, this vision inspires us to continue striving toward a prosperous and inclusive future," he said.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena called upon the people of the national capital to promote sustainable development and ensure the government's accountability for holistic development.

Addressing a small gathering after hoisting the national flag at Raj Niwas here on the occasion of Independence Day, he said freedom affords the right to remain vigilant for the fulfilment of one's interests and for ensuring that the government is accountable.

The Yamuna river flowing through the city belongs to all, he said and asserted that it was primarily the government's responsibility to keep it clean. "On the other hand, it's our responsibility to help the government in this endeavour." Saxena congratulated all medal winners at the Paris Olympics as well as wrestler Vinesh Phogat who was disqualified before the final and commended every participant for their exceptional performance and contribution to India's pride, the Raj Niwas said in a statement.

PM Modi on Thursday met Indian Olympic contingents at his residence in Delhi. 

Tirangaa yatra is being carried out in Delhi's Janakpuri with a 1km long National flag.

Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot hoisted the National Flag on behalf of CM Arvind Kejriwal at Delhi's Chhatrasal Stadium

 Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik on Thursday said that Independence Day is a powerful symbol of national unity and pride, offering a moment to reflect on the country’s remarkable journey.

Taking part in the I-Day celebrations at Raj Bhavan here, the governor said the celebration instils a sense of responsibility and patriotism in the youth, encouraging them to contribute positively to the nation’s progress, a communique from Raj Bhavan said.

Paying tributes to the brave sons and daughters of India, who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure our freedom, he said that India’s Independence marks the birth of the world’s largest democracy.

The governor recalled the values that guided the nation’s founding fathers, along with the contributions of the state's freedom fighters, including Matmur Jamoh, Moje Riba, and many others who played crucial roles in the struggle for Independence.

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday greeted people on 78th Independence Day and said "freedom is our biggest protective shield".

Wishing people on Independence Day, Gandhi said, "For us, freedom is not just a word – it is our biggest protective shield, rooted in constitutional and democratic values." It is the power of expression, the ability to speak the truth and the hope to fulfil dreams, the former Congress chief said in a post on X.

Gandhi attended the Independence Day event at the Red Fort and later also participated in the flag hoisting ceremony at the AICC headquarters.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami paid last respects to the mortal remains of Captain Deepak Singh at Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. Captain Deepak Singh was killed in the line of duty in J&K's Doda during an encounter with terrorists.

Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and Maldives’ President Mohamed Muizzu were among the world leaders who greeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and people of India on the occasion of India’s 78th Independence Day on Thursday.

Most of the leaders from the South Asian neighbouring countries invoked enduring friendship rooted in history and strengthening of bilateral relations when they greeted their counterparts.

Nepal Prime Minister Oli took to X to write: “Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji and the people of India on 78th Independence Day! May this day strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations. Looking forward to advancing Nepal-India relations.” Nepal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba too took to X to say, “On the occasion of the 78th Independence Day of India, I wish to extend warm greetings and felicitations to His Excellency @DrSJaishankar and the friendly people of India.” “May the ties of friendship and cooperation between Nepal and India continue to strengthen. Wishing peace, prosperity, and progress to the people of India,” she said with a hashtag #NepalIndiaRelations.

Tagging @narendramodi and @PMOIndia handles, Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay said on X, “Wishing the government and people of India a very happy Independence Day! May the special friendship between Bhutan and India grow ever stronger.” Fresh from last week’s visit by Jaishankar to his country to reset India's bilateral ties with the Maldives, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said on X: “On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President @rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister @narendramodi, and the people of India.” “Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the region. As we look to the future, I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen, driving mutual prosperity and shared goals,” he added.

Muizzu’s cabinet colleague and Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer extended warm greetings and best wishes to Jaishankar, the Government, and the friendly people of India on the jubilant occasion of Independence Day.

An all-women unit of the Border Security Force (BSF) made a maiden gesture and handed over sweets and exchanged greetings with lady BGB personnel of Bangladesh at the front in West Bengal as part of the traditional Independence Day celebrations held along the international border.

The first-ever women border guards exchange took place near the Gede border post of the BSF in the said district even as a "high alert" continues all along this over 4,000 km front following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government less than a week back.

The six-member BSF team, dressed in ceremonial regalia, belonged to the 32nd battalion of the force deployed in the area to guard the international boundary in Nadia district. The personnel are of the constable rank, officials told PTI.

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) women team that participated in the traditional ceremonial event held in the morning is affiliated to the 6th battalion of the Bangladeshi force deployed under the Darshana border post of the neighbouring country.

Former Odisha CM & BJD chief Naveen Patnaik hoisted the flag in Bhubaneswar

Tiranga hoisted at the residence of LK Advani 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his longest Independence Day speech today, addressing the nation from the Red Fort for 98 minutes. This marked the longest Independence Day speech by any Indian Prime Minister, with Modi's speeches averaging 82 minutes.

Key Highlights:

Women's Safety: PM Modi addressed societal outrage over atrocities against women, emphasizing the need for state governments to take crimes against women seriously. He called for swift investigations and strict punishments to restore faith in society.

Uniform Civil Code: PM Modi advocated for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code, describing it as a "secular civil code" necessary for national unity. He criticized the current civil code as "communal" and divisive.

Bangladesh: The Prime Minister expressed concern over political unrest in Bangladesh, particularly regarding the safety of Hindu minorities. He reiterated India's commitment to peace and prosperity in its neighboring country.

Reforms: PM Modi highlighted his government's dedication to reforms, stating that breaking the status quo was essential for India's growth and addressing the aspirations of the common man.

One Nation, One Election: PM Modi renewed his call for 'one nation, one election,' arguing that frequent elections hinder national progress and that a unified election system would benefit the country.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla hoisted the Tiranga at his residence in Delhi, on the 78th Independence Day today.

Independence day live: The 78th Independence Day of India was celebrated by the High Commission of India in Bangladesh on Thursday, August 15.

Independence day: DIG BSF Amritsar Sector, SS Chandel hoists Tiranga at Attari-Wagah border. 

Independence day live: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma hoisted the National flag

Independence day live: PM Narendra Modi says, "Supreme Court has held discussions regarding Uniform Civil Code again and again, it has given orders several times. A large section of the country believes - and it is true, that the Civil Code that we are living with is actually a Communal Civil Code in a way...I would say that it is the need of the hour to that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country...only then would we be free of the discrimination on the basis of religion..."

Independence day live: “Hindu minority in neighbourhood must be protected. Development in Bangladesh is worrisome. Rule of law should prevail in Bangladesh. Bangladesh must ensure safety of Hindus and minorities,” said PM Modi. 

Independence day live: Hindu minority in neighbourhood must be protected, said PM Modi 

Independence day live: “Beware of people full of negativity”, said PM Modi 

Independence day live: “We are the country of Budha not Yudha,”said PM Modi. 

Independence day live: PM Modi says, "Today, many big companies and investors of the world want to invest in India. This is a golden opportunity. I urge the State governments to make clear policies to attract investors and give assurance of good governance and law and order situation to them. There should be competition between States to attract maximum investors. Their policies should changed or molded as per global requirements..."

Independence day live: Fast probe, punishment needed for crimes against women: PM amid doctors' protest

Independence day live: PM Modi says, "We are becoming self-reliant in the defence sector. Today, we have our own identity in defence equipment manufacturing. India is emerging as a defence manufacturing hub."

Independence day live: “We have decided, in the next five years, we will generate 75000 new medical seats,” said PM Modi while addressing the nation. 

Independence day live: “Youth of my country does not intend to walk slowly now. Youth of my country does not believe in incremental progress. Youth of my country is in the mood to take a leap, it is in the mood to leap and achieve new goals. I would like to say that this is a golden era for India. Even if we compare it to the global situation, this is a golden era...We should not let this opportunity go to waste...If we go ahead with this opportunity, with our dreams and resolutions, we will be able to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047”, said PM Modi 

Independence day live: Speaking on the space sector, PM Modi says, "The space sector is an important aspect. We have done many reforms in this sector. Today, many startups are entering this sector. Space sector which is becoming vibrant is an essential element towards making India a powerful nation. We are focusing and giving strength to this sector with a long-term idea."

Independence day live: When we increase maternity leave, this show the empathy of govt: PM Modi 

Independence day live: This reform, this growth, this change is not just a matter of discussion for debate clubs, intellectual societies and experts. We did not do this for political compulsions...we have just one resolve - Nation First," said PM Modi. 

Independence day live: “Our reform procedure is not under any compulsions, it is with the intention of strengthening the country,” says PM Modi. 

Independence day live: "We were given a huge responsibility and we introduced major reforms on the ground...I would like to assure the countrymen, our commitment to reforms is not limited to pink paper editorials. Our commitment to reforms is not for a few days of appreciation. Our reform procedure is not under any compulsions, it is with the intention of strengthening the country. That is why, I can say that our path to reforms is the blueprint of growth in a way. This reform, this growth, this change is not just a matter of discussion for debate clubs, intellectual societies and experts. We did not do this for political compulsions...we have just one resolve - Nation First..."

Independence day live: When forces carry out air strikes, every Indian is filled with pride: PM 

Independence day live: PM Modi says, "Be it tourism, education, health, MSME, transport, farming and agriculture sectors- in every sector a new modern system is being created. We want to move forward by adopting best practices by integration of technology."

Independence day live: While addressing the nation, PM Modi said, “This is a golden ear of India and we should not waste this time but utilize it.” 

Independence day live: PM Modi says, "How can we forget the Corona period? Our country administered vaccines to crores of people the fastest of all, across the world. This is the same country where terrorists used to come and attack us. When the armed forces of the country execute surgical strike, when it does airstrike, the youth of the country are filled with pride. That is why the 140 crore citizens of the country are proud today."

Independence day live: “Our people had to beg the government. This was the culture. But now we have changed the model of governance,” said PM Modi. 

Independence day live: “Our people had to beg the government. This was the culture. But now we have changed the model of governance,” said PM Modi. 

Independence day live: If 40 crore people can free India, imagine what 140 crore can do, said PM Modi

Independence day live: Jal Jeevan mission reaches 15 crore beneficiaries, says PM Modi in his Independence day8 speech. 

Independence day live: While addressing the nation from Red Fort, PM Modi said], “Dalits, adivasis benefit from our schemes, we promoted ‘vocal for local’ 

Independence day live: India should become the 3rd largest economy, says PM Modi. 

Independence day live: India to be skill capital, said PM Modi 

Independence day live: Indiani must become self-reliant, ensure farmers’ produce reaches all, said PM Modi 

Independence day live: Proud of ancestral blood that overthrew British rule: PM Modi 

Independence day live: “Today is the day to pay tributes to the uncountable 'Azaadi ke deewane' who made sacrifices for the nation. This country is indebted to them,” says PM Modi. 

Independence day live: PM Modi addresses the nation on 78th Independence Day
 

Today is the day to honor the freedom fighters of our nation: PM Modi 

Independence day live: PM Modi hoists the national flag at Red Fort on 78th Independence Day

Independence day live: PM Narendra Modi is set to deliver his 11th Independence Day

Independence day live: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Red Fort for the 78th Independence Day celebrations

Independence day live: PM Modi to address the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort, shortly 

Independence day live: Flag hoisting ceremony at Embassy of India in Japan to celebrate the 78th Independence Day Ambassador

Independence day live: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat

Independence day live: Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy arrives at Red Fort to attend Independence Day celebrations. 

Independence day live: ITBP hoists tricolor at 15,000-foot altitude along India-China LAC in Chushul sector.

Independence day 2024 live: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari arrives at the Red Fort for India's 78th Independence Day celebrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to deliver his 11th Independence Day address, from the ramparts of the Red Fort this morning.

Independence day live: NSA Ajit Doval arrives at the Red Fort for India's 78th Independence Day celebrations.           

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to deliver his 11th Independence Day address, from the ramparts of the Red Fort this morning.

Independence day greetings to my fellow Indians: PM Modi 

Independence day live: PM Modi set to hoist national flag for 11th time