Amid multi-layered security arrangements, social distancing measures, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing the nation after unfurling the national flag on 74th Independence Day celebrations at the iconic Red Fort.
A security ring, including NSG snipers, elite SWAT commandos, over 4000 security personnel and kite catchers are placed around the Red Fort from where PM Modi is addressing the nation. Apart from other strict security measures over 300 cameras have been installed and their footage is being monitored round-the-clock, PTI reported.
Deployment of security personnel is being made both in plainclothes and uniforms along with a facial recognition system has also been set up at vantage points. Strict social distancing norms have been maintained between any two guests seated during the event as the celebrations are happening amid coronavirus pandemic.
Here are Highlights of Narendra Modi's Seventh Independence Day Speech
-My best wishes to everyone on Independence Day. I pay respect to all those who are serving the nation- defence forces, police forces, security force and crores of citizens serving the Nation.
-I want to thank the efforts of all corona warriors- healthcare workers, doctors and nurses, who have worked tirelessly to serve the nation. Many have even lost their lives, the nation salutes them.
-As we celebrate the 74th Independence Day, we look forward to the important milestone ahead - our 75th year of Independence, and as we lead up to it, it brings new energy and determination to take the nation forward and when we will reach that milestone, we will celebrate in a grand manner.
-Those who were busy finding new places to put their flags and wanted to expand their empire, underestimated us. The world saw two world wars and so many nations faced immense destruction, but we rose through it all and our freedom struggle was seen by the world.
-We have to focus on taking India to new heights, to build a new ‘atma-nirbhar (self-reliant) India’. India will most certainly achieve this as history is evidence to the fact that when India is determined to achieve something, it has always done so. A self-reliant India has now become the mantra for 130 crore Indians.
-I believe in the nation, its people, our belief, our youth and we all believe in Vasudev Kutumbakam - the world is one family.
-We need to be self-reliant in the agriculture sector, we have removed all restrictions from the agriculture and farming sector and this will benefit our farmers.
- I admit that there are lakhs of challenges for India to become atma-nirbhar and we can achieve anything. We never made PPE Kits, our production of masks and ventilators was meagre... but today we are making it all.