India is gearing up to celebrate Independence Day on August 15, 2024, a day that holds immense significance in the nation’s history. This day marks the end of British colonial rule and honors the leaders and freedom fighters who played pivotal roles in India’s fight for independence.
Is It the 77th or 78th Independence Day?
As India prepares for this year’s celebration, there is some confusion about whether it marks the 77th or 78th Independence Day. Understanding the difference between counting the number of years since independence and the actual number of Independence Days celebrated is crucial.
India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947. The first anniversary of this event was celebrated on August 15, 1948. Each subsequent August 15 marks both the anniversary of India’s freedom and the number of Independence Days celebrated.
According to government sources, August 15, 2024, will be the 78th Independence Day celebration. This confusion often arises because the first anniversary was observed one year after the event. Hence, while 2024 marks the 77th anniversary of independence, it is indeed the 78th Independence Day that will be observed this year.
How Will India Celebrate Independence Day 2024?
On August 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi and deliver his 11th consecutive Independence Day speech at 7:30 AM. This event will be broadcast live on Doordarshan, the Press Information Bureau’s YouTube channel, and on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) via @PIB_India and the PMO Twitter handle.
Following the speech, a grand parade will take place, showcasing India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and technological progress. The day will conclude with important buildings and monuments across the country being illuminated, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The theme for this year’s Independence Day is “Viksit Bharat,” reflecting the vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. This theme underscores India’s ongoing progress and development as it moves towards becoming a more developed country.
