As August 15, 2024, approaches, India gears up to celebrate yet another year of independence. The question often arises whether this marks the 77th or 78th Independence Day for the nation. This year, India will proudly observe its 78th Independence Day, aligning with the theme ‘Viksit Bharat,’ reflecting the government’s aspiration to transform the country into a developed nation by 2047.
The upcoming celebrations are not just a festive occasion but a powerful reminder of the immense struggles and sacrifices that were made over nearly two centuries to break free from British colonial rule. The spirit of patriotism is palpable both within the country and among the Indian diaspora worldwide, serving as a tribute to the leaders and freedom fighters who laid down their lives to secure India's sovereignty.
History
On August 15, 1947, India finally emerged from the shadows of British domination, a momentous day that has been commemorated as Independence Day ever since. The first anniversary of this historic event was celebrated on August 15, 1948, and in 2024, the nation will mark its 77th anniversary of independence. However, when counted from 1947, August 15, 2024, signifies the 78th celebration of this day. Thus, it is accurate to state that India will observe its 78th Independence Day on August 15, 2024.
In the lead-up to this significant day, the Red Fort in Delhi becomes the focal point of national celebrations. It was from this iconic site that India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, delivered his famous "Tryst With Destiny" speech, a tradition that has continued ever since.
Ensuring Security for a Peaceful Independence Day Celebration
As the nation comes together to celebrate Independence Day, there remains a constant threat from adversaries who seek to disrupt the peace. For every Indian, this day is a solemn occasion to honour the bravery and sacrifices of the freedom fighters. While it is a national holiday for the public, the day is marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies across various venues, including housing societies, private offices, schools, and colleges.
The Prime Minister’s address from the ramparts of the Red Fort is a moment of national pride, but it also necessitates stringent security measures to ensure the safety of citizens. To safeguard against any potential threats on Independence Day, several steps are undertaken by authorities:
Surveillance of High-Risk Areas: Key locations such as markets, railway stations, metro stations, and inter-state bus depots are placed under heightened surveillance. Additional security forces are deployed to these critical areas to maintain order. Police across different states conduct flag marches as a preventive measure.
Monitoring Through Human Intelligence: Given the persistent threat of terrorism, intelligence gathered from human sources is given special attention to preempt any possible attacks.
Fortification of Delhi's Key Areas: The Red Fort and its surrounding areas are heavily fortified, with thousands of armed personnel on duty. Informers are discreetly placed within the public to monitor activities closely.
Protection of National Monuments: Across the country, police maintain a vigilant watch over statues of Mahatma Gandhi and other prominent leaders to prevent any acts of vandalism by anti-social elements.
Deployment of Dog Squads and Bomb Disposal Units: Dog squads and bomb disposal teams are employed to thoroughly inspect and secure significant locations.
Increased Vigilance at Borders: Patrols along the nation's borders are intensified, and any suspicious activities are closely monitored to thwart infiltration attempts.
Flag Hoisting and Unfurling: Understanding the Distinction
On Independence Day, the Indian national flag is hoisted, a term that is often confused with unfurling. However, these two terms refer to distinct processes of displaying the flag, each with its significance.
Difference Between Hoisting and Unfurling: The main difference lies in how the tricolour is positioned during the two ceremonies. On Independence Day, the flag starts at the bottom of the pole and is raised to the top by the Prime Minister, symbolizing the country's rise to freedom.
Why the Flag is Hoisted on Independence Day: On this day, the Prime Minister hoists the flag from the base of the pole. This act is often accompanied by a ceremonial event involving a military or civilian honour guard, with the national anthem playing in the background. The hoisting of the flag on Independence Day signifies the birth of a free nation and the patriotic spirit of its people.
Why the Flag is Unfurled on Republic Day: In contrast, on Republic Day, the flag is tied and placed at the top of the pole. It is then unfurled by the President without raising it further. This gesture symbolizes the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950 and the transition from colonial rule to a sovereign republic.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the Flag Code of India have established guidelines to ensure the respectful handling of the national flag. These guidelines emphasize the importance of treating the flag with dignity, including the manner of hoisting and lowering it, ensuring it never touches the ground, and prohibiting its use as clothing or in a damaged state.
Conclusion
As India prepares to celebrate its 78th Independence Day on August 15, 2024, the significance of this day resonates deeply within the hearts of every Indian. It is a time to reflect on the nation's journey from colonial subjugation to freedom and to honour the sacrifices made by countless individuals for this cause. Through stringent security measures and the symbolic act of hoisting the national flag, India reaffirms its commitment to preserving the ideals of freedom, unity, and progress. The celebration of Independence Day not only commemorates the past but also inspires the nation to work towards a future that is prosperous, developed, and free from any form of oppression.
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