By Thanesh Veeramutu
INDIA, 15 August 2025: August 15th is a day of profound national introspection and pride. As India celebrates its 79th Independence Day, the country reflects on the long and arduous journey from colonial rule to becoming the world’s largest democracy. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters and the dawn of a new era founded on the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. The famous midnight hour address by Jawaharlal Nehru still resonates, symbolizing India’s awakening to a future it would chart for itself.
The celebrations, held annually across the nation, underscore the vibrant spirit of this freedom. This year’s theme, “Naya Bharat,” reflects the government’s vision of achieving a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047. The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, paid floral tributes at Raj Ghat before delivering his 12th consecutive Independence Day speech, which was the longest ever by any Indian Prime Minister.
During his address from the Red Fort, PM Modi announced several key initiatives, including “Mission Sudarshan Chakra” for defense, and the “Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana,” which offers a financial incentive to individuals securing their first private-sector job. He also announced a “High-Power Demography Mission” to address demographic challenges. Additionally, the Prime Minister highlighted the country’s progress in achieving self-reliance, with “Made-in-India” semiconductor chips expected by the end of 2025 and a goal to increase nuclear energy capacity tenfold by 2047. The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, also praised the “Operation Sindoor” theme of the Red Fort’s decorations, which represented humanity’s fight against terrorism.
Beyond the festivities and new initiatives, the day also compels a reflection on the challenges that persist. The nation’s journey since 1947 has been a testament to its resilience and growth, particularly in economic and technological fields. The national consciousness is shaped by an ongoing commitment to overcoming these challenges, ensuring good governance, and striving for an equitable society. Independence Day stands as a powerful symbol of this continuous endeavor, encouraging all citizens to reaffirm their pledge to uphold the values that define the nation and contribute to a stronger, more prosperous India. The day’s true essence lies not just in commemorating the past but in living out the ideals of freedom in the present and working towards a better tomorrow.
