New Delhi, August 14 (HS): As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to deliver his traditional address to the nation from the historic ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15, a special group of 171 distinguished guests will join the Independence Day celebrations — each recognised for their tireless work in empowering women, nurturing children, and ensuring essential services reach the last mile.

According to the Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD), the invitees represent a wide spectrum of grassroots and institutional changemakers, including Anganwadi workers and supervisors, boys and girls from Child Care Institutions (CCIs), children supported under PM CARES, Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), District Child Protection Officers (DCPOs), staff from One Stop Centres, and other officers from the WCD departments of various states and union territories.

‘True Nation-Building Begins with Women and Children’

Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi said the move was a tribute to those who quietly yet persistently serve at the frontline of social transformation.

“The Prime Minister often reminds us that true nation‑building begins by empowering women and nurturing our children. Honouring them this Independence Day is our way of celebrating their dedication in building a strong and inclusive India,” she said.

The ministry described the guests as “torchbearers of change”, whose work — from providing early childhood care to rescuing children from distress and supporting survivors of violence — strengthens the country’s social fabric.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar