Independence Day 2020: Every year the Independence Day of India is celebrated all over the country dutifully. India celebrated its 74th Independence Day on the 15th of August, 2020.

On this day, Indians pay respect to the brave leaders who fought for India’s Freedom. The day is celebrated all over the country with flag-hoisting ceremonies, drills, cultural dance, and singing Jana Gana Mana, the Indian national anthem. This year 2020 marks the 74th Independence Day which has been celebrated amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is at New Delhi's Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi after which he will proceed to the Red Fort. (Image: News18)

PM Modi began his speech with condolences to the people of the country who lost their lives due to tot the COVID-19 pandemic. Giving special reference to ‘Corona warriors’, he said they have lived the mantra of ‘Seva Parmo Dharma’ and served the people of India. 

PM Narendra Modi at the New Delhi's Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi. (Image: News18)

PM Modi reiterated the importance of Atmanirbhar Bharat and assured full support to fellow Indians during the need of the hour. Over 130 crore Indians have decided to become ‘atmanirbhar’ amid the coronavirus pandemic. “Becoming ‘atmanirbhar (self-reliant)’ is mandatory. I am confident that India will realize this dream. I am confident of the abilities, confidence, and potential of my fellow Indians. Once we decide to do something, we do not rest until we achieve that goal,” he said. 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the tricolor. This is PM Modi’s second Independence Day address from the Red Fort in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government’s second tenure. This is also his seventh ‘Red Fort address’ overall. 

In a strong message to Pakistan and China, without taking names of either country, PM Modi said, “Those who challenge India’s sovereignty, be it LoC or LAC, have been given a befitting reply in their own language. What India can do, the world has seen it in Ladakh.” Talking about Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister said India is committed to holding assembly elections in the Valley once delimitation exercise is complete.

On Ram temple, he said, “Construction of a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya started 10 days ago. The Ramjanmbhoomi issue that persisted for centuries, has been resolved peacefully now. The conduct of people of the country has been exemplary and is an inspiration for the future.”

The Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort was attended by over 4,000 people, including diplomats, officials, and media personnel. Safety protocols were in place for the event, including social distancing and wearing masks.