THE INDEPENDENCE DAY
The fifteenth of August 1947 is a great day in the history of India. On this day India achieved her independence after centuries of slavery. It was an historic event. India became free after a long struggle and countless sacrifices. The National Tricolour Flag was hoisted on the Red Fort. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, hoisted the National Flag in 1947. Since then, the fifteenth of August has been celebrated as Independence Day every year.
Independence Day is celebrated all over the country with great joy and pride. This day has a special significance for Delhi, the capital of India. In Delhi it is celebrated in a big way. The Red Fort is the centre of attraction. Elaborate arrangements are made for the flag hoisting ceremony. The main function starts at 7.30 a.m.
People in the Red Fort to witness the event of the year not only from Delhi but from outside as well. School children gather in big numbers. Ministers, ambassadors and other foreign dignitaries also arrive. A running commentary of the programme is broadcast on All India Radio. The programme is also telecast for the convenience of T.V. viewers.
The Prime Minister unfurls the National Flag and as he does so, the National Anthem is sung by the school children. Twenty-one gun shots are fired in honour of the solemn occasion. The Prime Minister then addresses the Nation reminding the people of the great sacrifices made by the countless men and women to help win India her freedom. He exhorts the people to protect freedom at all costs appealing to them to be united all the time.
It is my sincere belief that we the people of India should pledge to preserve our hard-won freedom every year on this auspicious day. We should also make up our minds to remain united and do everything within our power to make the country prosperous in all directions.
