15 August 2023 Celebrations
PM Narendra Modi delivered his 10th consecutive Independence Day address on 15 August 2023. PM Modi addressed the nation after unfurling the flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi. The theme of this year's celebration was "Nation First, Always First", which is an integral part of the wider "Amrit Mahotsav of Independence" celebrations. In 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also launched the "Har Ghar Tringa" campaign, encouraging the public to participate in the flag-hoisting ceremony on Independence Day, August 15, 2023. Around 1,800 people from different walks of life participated in the Independence Day celebrations.
Distinguished guests include:- Over 400 sarpanches from 660 vibrant villages, 250 from the Farmer Producer Organization Scheme, 50 each from the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, 50 Shram Yogis from the Central Vista Project as well as 50 Every primary school teacher, nurse and fisherman.
Highlights of the ceremony:
- Har Ghar Trikon Campaign: Prime Minister Modi launched the "Har Ghar Trikon" campaign, encouraging citizens to proudly display the tricolor flag at their homes.
- Prime Minister's address: PM Modi delivered his 10th consecutive Independence Day address on 15th August for 90 minutes.
- Ceremonial Gun Salute: The National Flag was raised amid a 21-gun salute by the elite 8,711 Field Battery (ceremonial) using Indian 105-mm Light Field Guns for the first time.
- Flower Arrangement: The decoration of the Red Fort included the attractive G20 logo.
- Cultural Representation: 75 couples dressed in traditional attire participated in the ceremony.
- Public Engagement: Citizens were encouraged to take selfies with the flag, share on official websites and social media using the campaign hashtag.
Key Features of Independence Day 2023:
- Vishwakarma Scheme for Crafts:
PM Modi announced the "Vishwakarma Yojana" targeting weavers, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, barbers and other traditional artisans. A budget allocation of Rs 13,000 to 15,000 crore is dedicated for this scheme. The launch of the scheme is scheduled on Vishwakarma Jayanti (September 17, 2023). It aims to enhance artisan products and services, integrate them into local and global value chains, and economically empower marginalized communities. - Empowering Border Villages:
PM Modi highlighted the "Vibrant Villages" initiative of the government, which has changed the outlook of border villages. He said that these border villages are not the last but the first villages in India, which shows their importance. - Legacy of Declarations:
Since his inaugural Independence Day speech in 2014, PM Modi has used the platform to introduce important policies and engage with citizens. Notable announcements include the Swachh Bharat Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. - Empowerment of middle class and women:
In his address, PM Modi emphasized on middle class and women-led development. He resolved to strengthen the middle class in the country in the years to come. - Dream of strong women:
PM Modi praised women self-help groups and aspired to make two crore 'Lakhpati Didis' (prosperous sisters). He advocated the safety of daughters and stressed on collective responsibility against atrocities.