Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in a message to Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, congratulated him on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of India, describing the occasion as a valuable opportunity… pic.twitter.com/l0yQLlDjWA

— Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) August 15, 2026

Congratulating India on its 80th Independence Day, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam said that both South Asian nations share a robust and forward-looking Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that is underpinned by close people-to-people ties.

In a letter to his Indian counterpart, Draupadi Murmu, penned on August 15, President Shanmugaratnam also noted that the two countries’ cooperation is multifaceted, expanding into new areas of skills development, digitalisation, sustainability and advanced manufacturing.

(PTI)

From the Pacific islands and East Asia to Europe, the Gulf and the Americas, Indians and “friends of India” joined celebrations marking the country's 80th Independence Day on Saturday, as key partners including France, Russia and Australia extended greetings and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties with New Delhi.

The celebrations unfolded across Indian missions and diaspora communities around the world, featuring flag-hoisting ceremonies, renditions of the national anthem and "Vande Mataram", cultural performances, community gatherings and a range of activities.

At the centre of the global celebrations was the "Suryapath Tiranga" initiative, under which the Indian Tricolour was hoisted successively at Indian missions as the day moved across time zones, beginning in Fiji and scheduled to culminate in San Francisco. The initiative, part of the broader "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign, sought to create a shared, continuous celebration stretching from one sunrise to the next.

(PTI)

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Saturday extended greetings and best wishes to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and the people of India on the occasion of the country's 80th Independence Day.

Shah's message comes amid Nepal's efforts to strengthen ties with India, with the Himalayan nation seeking greater economic cooperation and connectivity with its immediate neighbour.

“On the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to PM @narendramodi and the friendly people and Government of India,” Shah’s office said in a post on X.

Shah's message also comes days after he held his first one-on-one meeting with Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava on August 10, after having largely avoided such engagements with foreign diplomats since taking office.

“May the deep historical ties, close people-to-people relations and cooperation between Nepal and India continue to strengthen in the years ahead,” Shah said on Saturday.

(PTI)

15 Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday paid floral tributes at the Balidan Stambh here to honour the martyrs as the nation celebrated its 80th Independence Day.

The chief minister laid a wreath at the memorial and observed a moment of silence as a mark of respect for those who made the supreme sacrifice in service of the nation, a government spokesperson said.

Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg and other senior officials and security personnel were present. 

(PTI)

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday extended his warm wishes to the people of India on the landmark occasion of the nation's 80th Independence Day.

In a message posted on X, the French President wrote, "Congratulations to the Indian people on your 80th Independence Day!"

Congratulations to the Indian people on your 80th Independence Day! 🇮🇳🇫🇷

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) August 15, 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday greeted his Indian counterpart Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day, expressing confidence that the constructive bilateral partnership will benefit in enhancing international security and stability.

The Kremlin said in a statement that President Putin also said the bilateral relations are developing successfully in the spirit of a "particularly privileged strategic partnership." Putin is set to visit India in September to attend the BRICS Summit.

"Your country is making remarkable progress in the economic, social, scientific and technological spheres, and rightfully commands considerable authority in the international arena," Putin said.

"Russia-India relations are developing successfully in the spirit of a particularly privileged strategic partnership," he said and pointed out how Moscow and New Delhi are engaged in fruitful cooperation across a wide range of areas and coordinate closely within the framework of the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, BRICS, and other multilateral institutions.

"I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we will continue to comprehensively strengthen the constructive Russia-India partnership for the benefit of our friendly peoples and in the interests of enhancing international security and stability," the Russian president said.

(PTI)

A political row erupted in Kerala on Saturday after Vande Mataram was not included in the state government's Independence Day function, with the BJP accusing the Congress-led UDF government of "yielding to pressure from extremist organisations." The BJP said it would launch a legal and political battle against the government over what it termed an "unconstitutional act".

BJP leader Shone George told reporters that people in Kerala had witnessed "with sorrow" Chief Minister V D Satheesan "surrendering to the dictate of Jamaat-e-Islami".

"We were convinced of this. Because this is not new-for the past one year, the CM has had an illicit relationship with Jamaat-e-Islami and anti-India forces, both openly and covertly in Kerala," he alleged.

George said the BJP had expected Vande Mataram to be sung at the official function and alleged that the CM had failed to show "basic courtesy" by doing so.

He referred to guidelines issued by the General Education Department and claimed they stated that singing Vande Mataram was not mandatory.

(PTI)

Union ministers on Saturday extended greetings to the people on the country's 80th Independence Day and paid tributes to freedom fighters, while calling for collective efforts to build a developed, 
prosperous and self-reliant India.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged citizens to resolve to speed up the country's development.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said Independence Day is an occasion to remember the courage and sacrifice of freedom fighters, while also highlighting the responsibility of the citizens in shaping the country's future.

Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari called for efforts to build a "New India" and realise the vision of an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal urged people to promote "swadeshi" and contribute to the country's progress.

Health Minister JP Nadda stressed the need to strengthen national unity, integrity, brotherhood and democratic values.

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan called upon people to "live for the country" by performing their duties with honesty and dedication.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisting the national flag at the Red Fort was as memorable as Vande Mataram was played there for the first time.

Education Minister Pralhad Joshi said the tricolour embodies the courage, sacrifice and spirit of the freedom fighters and urged people to renew their resolve to serve the nation and contribute towards building a stronger, more prosperous and developed India.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the last 12 years have witnessed India's "atmavishwas, atmagaurav and atmanirbharta" ( self-confidence, self-respect and self-reliance) and highlighted the role of youth, women, farmers and workers in achieving the vision of a developed India.

(PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India must not remain dependent on other countries and move towards self-reliance by strengthening its own capabilities and protecting its national interests.

"We have to become self-reliant," Modi said, addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort after unfurling the national flag on the 80th Independence Day.

"There are many things in the world. They are cheaper, they are readily available. But that does not build our capabilities, nor does it test our capabilities. Therefore, we must develop our own capabilities and protect our own interests," he said.

PM Modi said government initiatives such as Make in India and Vocal for Local are becoming part of the thinking of every Indian. "We are moving forward with a firm resolve of Aatmanirbhar Bharat," he said.

(PTI)

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 will be realised through a prosperous West Bengal.

Hoisting the national Tricolour on Independence Day here, Adhikari said West Bengal is the land of nationalism and freedom fighters such as Khudiram Bose and Matangini Hazra.

"The Viksit Bharat dreams of our Prime Minister by 2047 will be realised through Viksit Paschim Banga by that year," he said.

Describing Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee as the architect of West Bengal, Adhikari said the state wants to fulfil his dreams.

"Our two luminaries, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and Rabindranath Tagore, composed the national song Vande Mataram and the national anthem Jana Gana Mana respectively, which stirred the entire nation," he said.

(PTI)

Bangladesh on Saturday extended warm greetings to the people of India on the 80th Independence Day and also paid tributes to the freedom fighters who laid down their lives for India's independence.

In a post on its social media platform X, the Bangladesh High Commission to India conveyed its wishes through a multilingual Independence Day message, highlighting the themes of "Friendship, Harmony and Prosperity".

"Bangladesh greets all men, women, and children in India as they celebrate eightieth Independence Day. We solemnly remember the brave souls who laid their lives in the long Freedom Movement," it posted on X.

#Bangladesh🇧🇩 greets all 🇮🇳men-women-children in #India as they celebrate eightieth #IndependenceDay.
We solemnly remember the brave souls who laid their lives in the long Freedom Movement.#Freedom #People #Youth #Tiranga pic.twitter.com/RiSmzaU4A9

— Bangladesh High Commission, New Delhi (@bdhc_delhi) August 15, 2026

Independence Day was celebrated with flag hoisting ceremonies across Punjab, Haryana and their common capital Chandigarh on Saturday.

Punjab Governor and Union territory Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria hoisted the national flag at Chandigarh, while Haryana Governor Ashim Kumar Ghosh hoisted the national flag in Yamunanagar.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann hoisted the national flag at a state-level function in Ferozepur and his Haryana counterpart Nayab Singh Saini unfurled the tricolour in Hansi.

Tight security arrangements were made in the two states for Independence Day events.

Delivering his address on the occasion of 80th Independence Day at a state-level function in Ferozepur, Mann remembered the contribution of martyrs including freedom fighters Bhagat Singh.

(PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday set a target of making six crore women 'Lakhpati Didis', saying this would bring a major transformation in the rural economy through the strength of women.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort on India's 80th Independence Day, Modi said the government has already surpassed its target of making three crore women 'Lakhpati Didis'.

The Lakhpati Didi initiative is a flagship Indian government programme under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).

It aims to empower women in Self-Help Groups to achieve a sustainable annual household income of Rs 1 lakh or more "We have surpassed the target we had set of making three crore sisters 'Lakhpati Didis'. Now, we are moving forward with the target of creating six crore Lakhpati Didis," he said.

(PTI)

Aam Aadmi Party National Convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, on Saturday said the younger generation was increasingly raising its voice over the condition of government schools, calling the demand for basic facilities such as desks, clean drinking water, toilets and teachers a reflection of "true freedom" on Independence Day.

In an Independence Day post on X, Kejriwal said this year's August 15 was "even more special" as children across the country were coming forward to demand better facilities in their schools.

"This August 15th is even more special. After Gen Z, now Gen Alpha has taken up the charge. Children across every corner of the country are fighting to get their schools fixed. They are demanding basic facilities for their schools like desks, clean water, toilets, and teachers. Our children have learnt to fight for their rights. That's what true freedom is... Heartfelt Independence Day wishes to all of you."

ये 15 अगस्त और भी ज़्यादा ख़ास है,

Gen Z के बाद अब Gen Alpha ने मोर्चा संभाल लिया है। देश के कोने-कोने में बच्चे अपने स्कूल को ठीक करवाने के लिए लड़ रहे हैं। वे अपने स्कूल के लिए desks, साफ पानी, toilets और शिक्षकों जैसी बुनियादी सुविधाओं की मांग कर रहे हैं।

हमारे बच्चों ने… pic.twitter.com/iU9OD2ArtN

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) August 15, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday interacted with schoolchildren at the Red Fort after delivering his address to the nation on the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day.

As soon as the Prime Minister concluded his speech, a group of schoolchildren dressed in white, green and saffron rushed towards him. Modi stopped to interact with them and shook hands with several children, creating an emotional moment at the culmination of his Independence Day address.

The Prime Minister had earlier led the national Independence Day celebrations at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. He hoisted the National Flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort and addressed the nation, outlining his vision for a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

This year's celebrations carried special significance as the country marked 150 years of 'Vande Mataram'. For the first time, the National Song was rendered as part of the Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort.

The Prime Minister said the occasion was historic and linked the spirit of 'Vande Mataram' with India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

During his address, Modi emphasised the need for collective efforts to build a self-reliant and developed India. He said the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 represents the aspirations of more than 140 crore Indians.

(ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that India's influence and standing across the world have been increasing on several fronts, with the country emerging as a widely accepted and respected nation in the international community.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the iconic Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, PM Modi said India's stable political mandate, stable government, vibrant democracy, strong judiciary and the Constitution have contributed to strengthening the country's position globally.

"Today, India is emerging in the eyes of the world as a widely accepted and respected nation. India possesses a stable political mandate, a stable government, a vibrant democracy, a robust judiciary, and guiding all of us is the Constitution of India. The world has now truly begun to recognise these intrinsic strengths of ours," he said.

PM Modi also highlighted the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and trade partnerships India has finalised with several countries since 2014.

#WATCH | Delhi: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "We are standing tall and moving forward, relying on our own strength. Everyone has been affected by global crises, and we are no exception. Globally, the price of a single sack of urea soared… pic.twitter.com/QnSgIeNI3Z

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "For the past 10-12 years, we have been continuously striving to achieve the goal of 2047, successfully reaching one milestone after another. We had not even imagined that we would have to face… pic.twitter.com/afeOCz9ZTK

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "In the coming 5 to 7 years, we need to achieve what could not be done in the last 5 to 7 decades. In the coming years, the government is moving towards reform - reform in thinking and reforming our aims." pic.twitter.com/gs3zeTWslS

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

India has a stable political mandate and a stable government.

We have a strong judicial system and a Constitution that continues to guide us.

The world is recognising India’s capabilities. That is why, since 2014, India has entered into Free Trade Agreements with almost 40… pic.twitter.com/FEP63IU1DO

— BJP (@BJP4India) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "... Nuclear energy is a major means of energy security. We have paved the way towards a new goal by passing the 'Peace Act' in Parliament. By 2047, we are moving forward with the target of 100… pic.twitter.com/yqkfEASmeP

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "The youth have a big role in the journey to become a Viksit Bharat. The biggest beneficiaries of Viksit Bharat will be the youth of the country." pic.twitter.com/0QHxZajqWc

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

"India has a stable political mandate, a stable government, a vibrant democracy, a strong judicial system and a Constitution that guides us all. The recent trade agreements we have signed provide a great opportunity for us. I want to tell our MSMEs that we must not miss this… pic.twitter.com/h4vKiDuuCr

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "... Becoming an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' is crucial. That is why, over the past few years, our conviction has been that India should no longer live in dependence on other nations; we must become… pic.twitter.com/DI9GV1xx1M

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

For years, India discussed semiconductors, but lacked large-scale semiconductor manufacturing facilities.

Recognising the strategic importance of chips, India has taken decisive steps towards self-reliance, with three semiconductor plants now underway. Exports have already… pic.twitter.com/lUC0c1ZDMr

— BJP (@BJP4India) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "In the last 12 years, defence production has increased nearly fourfold, while output from Khadi and village industries has grown almost fivefold. Electronics manufacturing has expanded nearly… pic.twitter.com/fTTFbuHYvM

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

Addressing the nation on the 80th Independence Day, PM Modi says, "12 years ago, piped gasline was available in only 70 cities. In the last 12 years, this number has grown to 700 cities. Today, 1.75 crore households are connected to piped gas lines in the country." pic.twitter.com/9Dor216igE

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "The country gained independence—independence accompanied by many dreams. Yet, we failed to pick up pace or gather momentum. We remained mired in an attitude of 'hoti hai,' 'chalti hai,' 'ho… pic.twitter.com/UgXO69JiXs

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

Addressing the nation on the 80th Independence Day, PM Modi says, "Energy security is the demand of the time. We are moving forward with the aim of 100 gigawatts of nuclear power by 2047. We aim to start five new nuclear reactors in this decade." pic.twitter.com/MdAy1t3ZMr

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

It is our conviction that India must not be dependent on other countries. We must become self reliant.

We have to strengthen our capabilities and protect our national interests. That is why, with the resolve of an #AtmanirbharBharat, we are moving forward.

Every Indian is… pic.twitter.com/ZUgLUOpiF8

— BJP (@BJP4India) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "... Over the past 12 years, countless citizens—whether Dalits, the downtrodden, the marginalized, or tribals; whether rural or urban dwellers; the poor or the middle class; youth or the… pic.twitter.com/YT8btWXU6S

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

We were once counted among the “Fragile Five”. However, India has, within just 12 years, emerged as the world’s fastest-growing major economy.

After Independence, India had big dreams, but progress often fell short of the pace we aspired to achieve.

Today, India is moving ahead… pic.twitter.com/vWMq7Uiwrs

— BJP (@BJP4India) August 15, 2026

India has a big dream: to build a #ViksitBharat by 2047, powered by the strength and resolve of 140 crore Indians.

When the world’s most populous nation sets its sights on becoming a developed country, it sends a powerful message to the world and is reshaping how the world sees… pic.twitter.com/WcukLU6M3Q

— BJP (@BJP4India) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation on the 80th Independence Day

PM Modi says, "Today, we are all celebrating the 80th Independence Day. Today, the chant of 'Vande Mataram' resonates in every heart. Today, the Tricolour flies in every home and… pic.twitter.com/rDDI57Xq5N

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

For the first time since Independence, the full rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ echoed from the Red Fort on August 15.

To all those affected by the floods, I want to assure the victim families that the entire nation stands with them in this hour of tragedy.

- PM @narendramodi… pic.twitter.com/Kql0rIWY89

— BJP (@BJP4India) August 15, 2026

From the ramparts of the Red Fort, PM Modi says, "I pay my tributes to Bapu and all the freedom fighters and revolutionaries on this Independence Day." pic.twitter.com/2OXyF6UvE7

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

मेरे प्यारे देशवासियों, आज हम सब 80वां स्वतंत्रता दिवस मना रहे हैं।

आज हर दिल की धड़कन वंदे मातरम् के नाद से गूंज रही है।

आज हर घर तिरंगा है, हर मन तिरंगा है।

देश उत्साह और उमंग के साथ नए संकल्पों को लेकर आज आगे बढ़ रहा है।

- पीएम @narendramodi#IndiaIndependenceDay pic.twitter.com/rzfL1Forll

— BJP (@BJP4India) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: For the first time, the National Song Vande Mataram is rendered during Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi leads the 80th Independence Day Celebrations from the Red Fort. pic.twitter.com/miSIlH6Dki

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

Nearly 5,000 special guests from different walks of life, including women entrepreneurs, young innovators, farmers and beneficiaries of various government schemes, are in attendance at the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on Saturday.

The invitees included International Yoga Day volunteers, women entrepreneurs under the PM Mudra Yojana, beneficiaries of schemes including NAMASTE, PM AJAY and SEED, and best performing My Bharat volunteers.

Best performing beneficiaries of PMAY(U), street vendors under PM SVANidhi, urban sanitation workers under the Swachh Bharat Mission, best performing Delhi Metro workers, workers associated with Kartavya Path and Central Vista, staff of government hospitals in Delhi were also part of the gathering.

The special guests also included young innovators under national innovation programmes, scientists in different fields, cab drivers of Bharat Taxi in Delhi, interns under the Prime Minister Internship Scheme, and best performing start-ups supported under various government schemes.

Youth trained under the PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana, best performing start-ups supported under Start-up India Seed Fund, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana beneficiaries and artisans under PM Vishwakarma scheme, as well as beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, were also invited.

Best performing farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) and students from Delhi government schools who performed well in various quizzes and competitions were among the other invitees.

(PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 80th Independence Day with his signature flair, sporting a traditional tie-and-dye red turban for his 13th consecutive address to the nation from the historic ramparts of the Red Fort.

PM Modi paired his white kurta and chocolate brown vest with the traditional turban, common in Rajasthani and Gujarati culture. He also sported three pocket squares of saffron, green and white colours.

PM Modi's Independence Day turbans have evolved into a visual tradition of their own. Last year, he donned a vibrant Rajasthani leheriya turban that fluttered in hues of orange, yellow and green -- a nod to tradition and a symbol of India's rich cultural tapestry.

(PTI)

#WATCH | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Guard of Honour at the Red Fort; PM Modi to lead the 80th Independence Day celebrations.

(Source: PMO/YouTube) pic.twitter.com/9mPHYg8yKN

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays floral tributes to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat on the 80th Independence Day

(Video source: PM Modi/ YouTube) pic.twitter.com/xIcfLPeDol

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

स्वतंत्रता दिवस पर सभी देशवासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ। आज का यह दिन, भारत की स्वतंत्रता के लिए अपना सर्वस्व अर्पित करने वाले अनगिनत स्वतंत्रता सेनानियों के अदम्य साहस, त्याग और सर्वोच्च बलिदान का स्मरण करने का अवसर है। उनके संघर्ष ने हमें केवल राजनीतिक स्वतंत्रता ही नहीं, बल्कि…

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) August 15, 2026

समस्त देशवासियों को स्वतंत्रता दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ।

स्वतंत्रता दिवस के अवसर पर माँ भारती की आजादी के लिए अपना सर्वस्व अर्पित करने वाले सभी वीर सेनानियों को कोटि-कोटि नमन करता हूँ।

आइए, इस स्वतंत्रता दिवस पर विकसित, समृद्ध और आत्मनिर्भर भारत के निर्माण को और गति देने का… pic.twitter.com/9QWOj9kTGV

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 15, 2026

We extend our best wishes to our friends across India as you celebrate this special day. The historic relationship between the world’s largest democracy and the world’s oldest democracy is consequential and far-reaching. We look forward to strengthening the U.S.-India partnership… pic.twitter.com/2WWWdRoChk

— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) August 15, 2026

Today, we celebrate Bharat's 🇮🇳Independence Day. Though India and Israel differ in size, we share ancient heritage & national revival.
We are proud of the 🇮🇱 🇮🇳friendship & will continue to strengthen our partnership.
स्वतंत्रता दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ! pic.twitter.com/RXbsbRpAbj

— 🇮🇱 Reuven Azar (@ReuvenAzar) August 15, 2026

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday said India's constitutional values, democratic institutions and social harmony have faced "serious challenges" over the last 10 years, as he called for full measure of equality and justice for the economically-weaker sections.

In his message to people on India's 80th Independence Day, Kharge said the country has travelled a long way, but many aspirations still remain unfulfilled.

"Warm greetings to all my fellow citizens on Independence Day. We pay our humble tribute to the countless freedom fighters who gave their all in the struggle for India's freedom. Their courage, sacrifice and unwavering faith in our nation continue to inspire us," the Congress chief said in his message to people posted on X.

Warm greetings to all my fellow citizens on Independence Day 🇮🇳

We pay our humble tribute to the countless freedom fighters who gave their all in the struggle for India’s freedom. Their courage, sacrifice and unwavering faith in our nation continue to inspire us.

Over the past… pic.twitter.com/lCX7TtHxi0

— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) August 15, 2026

The capital is on high alert in view of Independence Day celebrations, with more than 25,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel deployed across the city to maintain law and order, while a multi-layered security grid has been placed around the Red Fort, involving over 1,000 CCTV cameras and AI-based video analytics, a senior police officer said.

Elaborate security arrangements are in place around the historic Red Fort, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the national flag and address the nation.

The security plan includes multiple layers of checking and screening at entry points and around the Red Fort, besides a dedicated anti-terror response mechanism to deal with any possible threat or emergency situation, the officer said.

More than 25,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel are deployed at strategic locations across the city, including the Red Fort and other sensitive areas.

More than 1,000 CCTV cameras are deployed inside and outside the Red Fort to keep a close watch on the area. The cameras are linked to systems equipped with artificial intelligence-based video analytics, while live feeds are being monitored from a dedicated control room, the officer said.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has greeted the people of India on its 80th Independence Day, asserting that the bilateral ties were stronger than ever due to the personal relationship between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a statement issued here on Friday, Rubio said the deep ties of friendship and family between the people of the two countries form the foundation of a partnership that is innovative, resilient and forward looking.

"On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm congratulations to the people of India on their Independence Day," Rubio said.

"Thanks to the personal relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi, the US-India relationship continues to grow and is stronger than ever," the US secretary of state said.

(PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday greeted people on the occasion of Independence Day and said powered by 140 crore Indians, the country is scaling new heights of progress across different sectors.

PM Modi also paid tributes to the countless freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment ensured the end of colonial rule.

"Warm greetings on the occasion of Independence Day. We remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment ensured the end of colonial rule," the prime minister said in a post on X.

Warm greetings on the occasion of Independence Day.

We remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment ensured the end of colonial rule. Their dreams continue to inspire us as we work together to build a Viksit Bharat.…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2026

Security has been tightened in Delhi and Gurugram ahead of the 80th Independence Day celebrations, with security agencies on high alert across key locations.

Security has been particularly intensified at the Red Fort following a bomb threat email received ahead of Independence Day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the 80th Independence Day Celebrations from the Red Fort.

Security has also been put on high alert in Gurugram and other cities in the National Capital Region (NCR).

Security personnel and agencies are maintaining heightened vigilance at important locations as part of the arrangements for Independence Day.
Earlier on Friday, a bomb threat was received by the Delhi High Court through email, Joint Secretary of the Delhi High Court, Advocate Kunal, said.

The email threat was purportedly originated from Babar Khalsa Canada and contained references to Khalistan.

(ANI)