New Delhi, 15 August (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began his Independence Day address from the ramparts of the Red Fort, marking his 13th consecutive address from the historic venue as India celebrated its 80th Independence Day.

The celebrations witnessed a historic moment as Vande Mataram was performed from the Red Fort before the national anthem, marking the first time the national song was sung at the venue as part of the Independence Day proceedings.

Before leaving for the Red Fort, PM Modi extended Independence Day greetings to the people of the country and paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose courage and sacrifices paved the way for India's independence.

The Prime Minister first visited Rajghat, where he paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. He then proceeded to the Red Fort, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and senior defence officials welcomed him.

PM Modi arrived at the Red Fort ahead of the scheduled 7:30 am address. He subsequently took part in the ceremonial proceedings and unfurled the national flag before addressing the nation.

This year's celebrations have a strong focus on India's youth, with “150 Years of Vande Mataram” and “Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047” identified as the two major themes. Around 27,000 guests, including students, young innovators, entrepreneurs and interns, are attending the celebrations.

The government has also made extensive security arrangements in and around the Red Fort. More than 1,000 CCTV cameras equipped with AI-based video analytics have been deployed, while multiple layers of screening and surveillance are being maintained through a dedicated control room.

Delhi Metro services began at 4 am to facilitate the movement of guests and invitees attending the Independence Day programme. Trains are operating at 30-minute intervals across the network.

The Delhi Traffic Police has also imposed restrictions and diversions on several roads around the Red Fort during the morning celebrations. Commuters were advised to plan their journeys in advance and follow traffic advisories.

The 2026 Independence Day celebrations also mark a significant milestone in Modi's tenure as Prime Minister. His first Independence Day address from the Red Fort came in 2014, and Saturday's speech is his 13th consecutive address from the historic ramparts.

The celebrations are taking place amid a nationwide focus on the government's vision of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047, with the role of young Indians and the country's cultural heritage featuring prominently in this year's programme.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar