Flag hoisting ceremony, PM’s speech, followed by parades, pageants, and firework displays is how India has always celebrated August 15th. But this year, Independence day is set to look a little different in view of the country still in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic. (LIVE UPDATES)
According to an advisory released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the ceremony at Red Fort would consist of the presentation of Guard of Honour by the Armed Forces and the Delhi Police to the PM, unfurling of the National Flag accompanied by playing of the National Anthem and firing of 21-gun salute. “This would be followed by the PM’s speech, National Anthem, and release of tri-colored balloons at the end,” it read.
School children not invited
Considering health and safety, school children and senior citizen won’t be a part of this year’s Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort. Cultural events are also cancelled. Instead, 300 NCC cadets are invited to the programme. Most of the schools also have decided to have virtual celebrations this year.
“It is imperative to follow certain preventive measures such as maintaining social distancing, wearing of masks, proper sanitisation, avoiding large congregations, protecting vulnerable people,” the Home Ministry guidelines read.
Read: PM Narendra Modi’s Independence Day speech at Red Fort: Top Quotes
Crowd-regulating restrictions
As a part of crowd-regulating restrictions, MHA has send out VIP invites to 200-250 people. Generally, the event would have close to 1000 VIP invitees. The two grounds on either side of the Red Fort, which are usually open to the public, will also remain closed.
Read: Thermal scanners, sanitisers, kits: Independence Day in the time of COVID-19
Security personnel quarantined
Police personnel participating in the programme will be in PPE kits. Ahead of the celebration, 350 police personnel, who will be part of the guard of honour at the Red Fort, were quarantined. Their movement is restricted and the vehicles in which they travel are sanitised regularly.
COVID Warriors invited
Additionally, MHA has asked the states to invite “COVID warriors like doctors, health workers, santisation workers as a recognition of their noble service in the fight against the pandemic.” Some people who recovered from COVID-19 will also be invited.
Read: PM Modi pays tribute to COVID-19 warriors, says India working on 3 vaccines
Food will be given in sealed packets and water bottles will be placed at each table, instead of having Food stalls.
