Independence Day 2020 live updates: President Kovind praises corona warriors on eve of Independence Day

President Kovind addresses nation on Independence Day eve: Key quotes

Read: Multilayered security arrangements, social distancing norms in place for I-Day event at Red Fort

A security ring, including NSG snipers, elite SWAT commandos and kite catchers, will be placed around the Red Fort from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation. “The Delhi Police has made multilayered arrangements in connection with the Independence Day celebrations. Necessary coordination has been made with other agencies like the NSG, SPG and ITBP. “All the agencies will work in close coordination with each other to cater to all kinds of threat inputs. SWAT teams and ‘Parakram' vans have been strategically stationed,” Anil Mittal, additional PRO Delhi Police, said.

The other lesson is about augmenting health infrastructure. Public hospitals and labs have been leading the fight against Covid: President Kovind

Another lesson relates to science & technology. During unlocking, information and communication technology has emerged as an effective tool for governance, education, business, office work and social connect: President Kovind

Coronavirus does not recognize any artificial divisions created by human society: President Kovind

The second lesson is that we are all equal before Mother Nature and we primarily depend on our fellow residents for survival and growth, says the President.

We have learnt some tough lessons in the year 2020. The invisible virus has demolished the illusion that human being is the master of the nature: President Kovind

President cites that India will continue to engage with the world economy while maintaining its identity.

"India's self-reliance means being self-sufficient without alienating or creating distance from the world," he says.

Bravery of soldiers demonstrated that India is also capable of giving befitting response to any attempt of aggression: President Kovind

The entire nation pays tribute to the those who sacrificed lives during the Galwan clash. Every Indian has a feeling of gratitude towards their families: Ram Nath Kovind

The overwhelming support for India's election as temporary member of the UNSC in the recently concluded elections is a testimony to the broad international goodwill towards India, says President Kovind.

It was a superhuman effort on part of the govt to respond effectively in meeting the challenges due to Covid pandemic: Ram Nath Kovind

Indian Railways has been operating train services, in these challenging circumstances, to facilitate travel and transportation of people and goods: President Kovind

Govt has brought back more than 10 lakh Indians under the ‘Vande Bharat Mission’: President Kovind