'We have become a global economic power'; PM hoists national flag at Red Fort on 80th Independence Day

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort to mark the start of the country's 80th Independence Day celebrations. The flag was hoisted at 7:30 am after Vande Mataram. This was followed by a 21-gun salute. IAF M-17 helicopters showered flowers from the sky.

A helicopter carrying the national flag and a helicopter with Vande Mataram written on it showered flowers. As part of the Independence Day celebrations, the Prime Minister addressed the nation. Modi began his speech by remembering the freedom fighters.

'Vande Mataram is in everyone’s mind. The country is moving forward with new hopes. We are on a journey to achieve our goals. All dreams will come true. A developed India will become a reality in 2047. You should dream big. I have been working with determination for 12 years. We can attain great achievements. We have become a world economic power. We have also accomplished achievements in the digital field. The goal of poverty eradication has been achieved. The legal system has become strong and transparent.

There has been a revolutionary change in the technology sector. Digital transactions have increased many times. The goal of infrastructure for all has been fulfilled. There has been a big breakthrough in the semiconductor sector. We have become a force in the nuclear energy sector. We have also garnered achievements in the field of energy security. The number of internet users has increased fourfold,’ said the Prime Minister.