Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi  addressed the nation from New Delhi’s Red Fort on Monday, August 15, 2022. Before the traditional speech kicked off at 7:30 AM, Modi unfurled the national flag, which was followed by the national anthem.

Four helicopters of the Indian Air Force were also seen flying over the Red Fort, dropping flower petals over the audience.

Here is what Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to mark the 75th anniversary of India’s independence:

-The Indian Prime Minister started his address by honouring Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Shubhash Chandra Bose, Babasaheb Ambedkar and Veer Savarkar. “Kartvya path hi unka jeevan path raha”, he said.

-“Every India is filled with pride when they remember the strength of the women of India- be it Rani Laxmibai, Jhalkari Bai, Chennamma, Begun Hazrat Mahal.”

-“I congratulate all Indians and those who love India on this Independence Day. It is a day to step towards a new direction with a new resolve.”

-“We salute our soldiers, police forces and most importantly every citizen who combated many challenges, worked towards vision of new India.”

-” There were problems of food security, war, terrorism, natural calamities but India marched forward against all odds.”

-“Our nation has proved we have inherent strength coming from our diversity, common thread of patriotism makes India unshakeable.”

-“I have dedicated myself to fulfilling Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of empowering the last man in the queue.”

-“Nation’s enthusiasm for ‘Tiranga‘ seen in last three days could not have been imagined by many experts, symbolises nation’s reawakening.”

-PM Modi urged Indians to take a ‘panchpran’, or five pledges. First, to move forward with bigger resolves and resolve of developed India. Second, erase all traces of servitude. Third, to be proud of our legacy. Fourth, to be full of strength of unity and last, to acknowledge the duties of citizens, including the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers.

-“I urge youth to dedicate the next 25 years of their lives to the nation’s development. We will work towards the development of humanity.”

-PM Modi said that the two biggest problems that India faces right now are corruption and dynasties. “Corruption hollowing the country like a termite and we have to fight it. We have to raise awareness against ‘Parivaarwaad’ to realise the strength of our institutions, to take the country forward on the basis of merit.”

After wrapping up his hour-long address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi left the Red Fort in his convoy. However, his car halted for a customary meet-and-greet with the young people who were participating in the celebrations.