On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu on Friday hosted an ‘At Home’ gathering at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The event saw the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers, chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as foreign diplomats. Earlier in the day, the President paid tribute to the martyrs at Delhi’s National War Memorial, honouring those who laid down their lives in armed conflicts since Independence.
Tribute in heavy rain
President Murmu was joined by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi. Together, they marched to the memorial under heavy rain. Two women officers from the Air Force carried the ceremonial wreath. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth were also present during the tribute.
PM Modi’s Independence Day address
From the Red Fort, Prime Minister Modi delivered his 12th consecutive Independence Day speech, stressing that Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) is essential for building Viksit Bharat (developed India). He highlighted its importance in fields such as defence, space, renewable energy, farming, and mineral resources. Modi cautioned against overdependence on others, saying it weakens true independence and urging citizens to remain self-reliant.
Mission Sudarshan Chakra
In his address, PM Modi announced ‘Mission Sudarshan Chakra’, a project aimed at boosting India’s security by neutralising threats and enhancing offensive strength. The mission takes inspiration from the mythical weapon of Lord Krishna and focuses on rapid and precise defence capabilities. Modi stated that by 2035, India will expand, modernise, and strengthen this security shield, drawing on the spirit of the Sudarshan Chakra.
