INDEPENDENCE DAY 2026: PM NARENDRA MODI HOISTS NATIONAL FLAG AT RED FORT

The Prime Minister unfurled the Tricolour to a 21-gun salute, marking 150 years of 'Vande Mataram' and celebrating 'Yuva Shakti' on India's 80th Independence Day.

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the National Flag from the historic ramparts of the Red Fort on Saturday morning to lead India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations.

Assisted by Captain Sonia Singh Chauhan, the Prime Minister hoisted the Tricolour, which was immediately accorded a ceremonial Rashtriya Salute by the Inter-Services and Delhi Police National Flag Guard.

The hoisting of the National Flag was perfectly synchronized with a majestic 21-gun salute fired by the gunners of the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial) using indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns.

Simultaneously, two Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters flew over the Red Fort, showering fresh flower petals over the gathering. One helicopter trooped the National Flag, while the second displayed a special banner commemorating 150 years of the National Song, Vande Mataram.

For the first time in Independence Day history, the National Song Vande Mataram was formally rendered alongside the National Anthem right after the flag hoisting. Accompanied by the Army Band, attendees across the venue joined in singing the historic anthem.

Following the ceremonial honours, Prime Minister Modi commenced his address to the nation, focusing on the theme of 'Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat' and outlining the roadmap for a developed India.