Bhubaneswar, Aug 15: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi of Odisha hoisted the National Flag at Mahatma Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar as part of the state-level celebrations marking India’s 78th Independence Day.
This marked the first time Majhi has performed this ceremonial duty since taking office as Chief Minister.
Following Majhi’s flag-hoisting, Deputy Chief Ministers KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida will carry out similar ceremonies in Nuapada and Cuttack respectively. After raising the flag, Chief Minister Majhi began his address to the state, during which he paid homage to the freedom fighters who contributed to India’s independence.
In Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort at 7:30 am, continuing his tradition of leading the nation’s Independence Day celebrations. In his speech, PM Modi paid tribute to the countless freedom fighters who sacrificed for the nation. “Today is a day to honour the innumerable ‘Azaadi ke deewane’ who dedicated their lives for our country. We are forever indebted to them,” he stated.
During the ceremony, the Indian Air Force’s Advanced Light Helicopters showered flower petals as PM Modi unfurled the tricolour from the historic ramparts of the Red Fort.
This year’s Independence Day theme, “Viksit Bharat @ 2047,” highlights the government’s ambition to transform India into a developed nation by 2047, the centenary of independence. The Prime Minister’s address focused on government policies and programme announcements, with “Viksit Bharat 2047” representing the collective resolve and aspirations of India’s 140 crore people.
On the eve of Independence Day, PM Modi commended the success of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign, which encourages citizens to display the national flag at their homes. Launched during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the campaign has gained significant traction and is now in its fourth year.
