In a significant event set to take place on India’s Independence Day, Major Nikita Nair and Major Jasmine Kaur, two women officers, will play a crucial role alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the ceremonial unfurling of the National Flag at the historic Red Fort. This noteworthy occasion will also feature a synchronized 21 Gun Salute executed by the skilled gunners of the esteemed 8711 Field Battery (Ceremonial), as officially announced by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Sunday.
Unveiling the Tricolour
Prime Minister Modi will lead the unfurling of the National Flag, accompanied by a captivating aerial display choreographed by the Indian Air Force. Advanced Light Helicopters Mark-III Dhruv will conduct a synchronized maneuver, showering the venue with a picturesque cascade of flower petals in a precise Line Astern Formation.
Dignified Guard of Honour
The Prime Minister’s Guard of Honour contingent will consist of 25 personnel each from the Army, Air Force, and Delhi Police, complemented by one officer from each division. Additionally, 24 personnel from the Navy will join, collectively embodying the nation’s unity and strength in a poignant display of military excellence.
The Majestic Red Fort
Following the inspection of the Guard of Honour, Prime Minister Modi will ascend the grandeur of the Red Fort’s ramparts. Here, he will be received with honor by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the heads of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Guided by Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, GoC of Delhi area, Prime Minister Modi will take center stage on the ramparts’ dais for the ceremonial unfurling of the National Flag.
Rashtriya Salute and National Anthem
After the Tricolour is unfurled, a solemn ‘Rashtriya Salute’ will be presented to Prime Minister Modi. The Army band, led by Naib Subedar Jatinder Singh, will reverberate with the National Anthem, echoing the nation’s pride and unity.
Honoring the Flag’s Dignity
During the Flag unfurling, the National Flag Guard will come into action, comprising officers and personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police. This collective representation will present a dignified Rashtriya Salute, commanded by Major Abhinav Detha from the Army, overseeing the Inter-Services Guard and Police Guard.
Inspirational Address and Cadet Anthem
Following the symbolic display of flower petals, Prime Minister Modi will address the nation—an occasion of immense significance. The culmination of his speech will be marked by the harmonious rendition of the National Anthem performed by cadets from the National Cadet Corps (NCC). Over 1,100 NCC cadets from schools across the nation will participate in this poignant celebration, seated on bleachers at the Gyanpath, donned in their pristine white uniforms.
Unified Efforts
The Defence Ministry underscores the Indian Army’s role as the coordinating service for this year’s event. Modernizing the process, official invitations were distributed through the aamantran portal, facilitating the issuance of approximately 17,000 e-invitation cards—an embodiment of unity and progress.
