Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation from the Red Fort for the 11th consecutive year on the 79th Independence Day on Friday. Preparations are underway to make the event a historic occasion, with this year’s speech set to honour the bravery and sacrifices of the Indian armed forces, especially during Operation Sindoor.

According to sources, PM Modi’s address will focus on India’s global vision, international partnerships, and the vital role of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation.

Prime Minister Modi is expected to highlight the courage displayed during Operation Sindoor, a recent cross-border counter-terror operation in Pakistan that dealt a major blow to terrorist infrastructure in the enemy territory.

On May 7, India carried out Operation Sindoor precision strikes to dismantle Pakistani terror infrastrucutre in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 civilians were gunned down by Pakistan-based terrorists.

The PM may also announce central support for restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, sources added. The proposal, recommended by the Union Territory’s Governor, would be followed by legislative and administrative measures to reinstate the region’s statehood status, they said.

As in previous years, the Prime Minister’s Independence Day address is expected to set the national agenda.

Four main themes are likely to feature prominently:

• Recognition of the armed forces’ service.
• Measures to boost indigenous defence production under the Make in India initiative.
• New policies for women’s welfare and farmers’ support.
• An economic roadmap to position India as the world’s third-largest economy.

Social welfare schemes are expected to receive fresh funding, while defence announcements may include steps to reduce reliance on imports and strengthen the domestic manufacturing base. The address is also likely to underline India’s increasing role in global affairs and its vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

OPERATION SINDOOR CELEBRATION

This year’s Independence Day celebrations will also mark 100 days since Operation Sindoor. The Red Fort will be decorated with the operation’s theme as a tribute to the armed forces’ success.

Large Operation Sindoor logos will be painted on the monument’s walls, and invitation cards for the event will carry the logo alongside an image of the Chenab Railway Bridge — a symbol of engineering achievement and national pride.

During the flag-hoisting ceremony, Air Force helicopters will fly over the Red Fort bearing the Operation Sindoor emblem, while the 21-gun salute will be performed with indigenous 105 mm artillery guns.

Across the country, military bands will perform in 100 cities to commemorate the operation’s 100th day, bringing the celebrations to the public.

The Independence Day programme will thus serve as both a celebration of the nation’s freedom and a tribute to the courage of the armed forces, reinforcing their central role in defending India’s sovereignty and shaping its future.

– Ends

Tune In