Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India is “scaling new heights of progress” across sectors, attributing the country’s development to the collective efforts of its 140 crore citizens in his Independence Day message.

Ahead of his address from the Red Fort, Modi extended greetings to citizens and paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose courage and sacrifice brought an end to colonial rule. He said their vision would continue to inspire India’s efforts to build a Viksit Bharat.

PM Modi Hails India’s Development Journey

“Powered by 140 crore Indians, our nation is scaling new heights of progress across different sectors,” Modi said in a post on X ahead of his Independence Day address.

Warm greetings on the occasion of Independence Day.

We remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment ensured the end of colonial rule. Their dreams continue to inspire us as we work together to build a Viksit Bharat.…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2026

The Prime Minister said the dreams of the country’s freedom fighters continued to inspire India’s development journey and urged citizens to work collectively towards creating a developed India.

He also expressed hope that the country’s progress would accelerate further in the coming years, calling on citizens to draw inspiration from the courage, struggle and dedication demonstrated during the freedom movement.

India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day on Saturday, with Modi scheduled to lead the national celebrations at the Red Fort and address the nation from its ramparts.

Vande Mataram To Feature In Red Fort Ceremony

This year’s celebrations will feature the rendition of “Vande Mataram” at the Red Fort for the first time during the Independence Day ceremony.

The programme will also commemorate 150 years of the National Song and highlight the aspirations and participation of India’s youth in the country’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

Nearly 5,000 special guests from different sections of society have been invited to attend the celebrations at the Red Fort.

More than 1,500 people from different states and Union Territories will also participate in the ceremony.

Flag Hoisting, 21-Gun Salute Among Ceremonial Events

The celebrations will include the hoisting of the national flag, followed by a 21-gun salute using indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns.

A Rashtriya Salute will also be presented by the Inter-Services and Delhi Police Guard.

Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, an Army band will perform “Vande Mataram”, after which the National Anthem will be played.

Two Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters will shower flower petals over the venue as part of the ceremonial proceedings.

After Modi’s address, 2,500 National Cadet Corps cadets and My Bharat volunteers will sing “Vande Mataram”, followed by the National Anthem.

Independence Day Celebrations Across India

Independence Day events are also being held across the country, with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes and patriotic band performances planned at 343 prominent locations.

The celebrations are being organised alongside the national ceremony in New Delhi, marking the 80th anniversary of India’s independence.

In his message, Modi urged citizens to carry forward the spirit of the freedom movement and contribute collectively to India’s development as the country works towards the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.

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