• By Abhirupa Kundu
  • Mon, 14 Aug 2023 10:47 PM (IST)
  • Source:PTI
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Independence Day 2023: Prime Minister Narendra Modi marking the 77th Independence Day will be addressing the nation on August 15 from Delhi's Red Fort where dignitaries from across the country will be taking part in the celebrations. PM Modi will be hoisting the national flag and deliver a speech commemorating the Independence Day from the ramparts of the historic monument.

The Delhi Police has heightened security around the Red Fort, deploying at least 10,000 police personnel. Around 1,000 facial recognition cameras, anti-drone systems are also in place for surveillance, News18.com reported.

The Defence Ministry in a statement said that around 1800 people from different vocations along with their spouses have been invited to attend the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. The participation of the large number of "special guests" comes in line with the Centre's vision of "Jan Bhagidari", the ministry said.

Seventy-five couples from every state and Union Territory will be attending the ceremony in their traditional attire, it said.

The 77th Independence Day marks the culmination of the "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav" launched by the Prime Minister in 2021. According to the statement, this year's Independence Day will usher the country to move to "Amrit Kaal" with a renewed zeal to realise the country's dream of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

With the motive to engage citizens from every corner of the country, the Ministry of Defence on MyGov portal will be conducting an online selfie contest from August 15 to 20.

"All official invites have been sent online through aamantran portal, and 17,000 e-invitation cards have been issued through the portal," the Defence Ministry statement said, reported news agency PTI.

The Prime Minister will inspect the Guard of Honour which consists of one officer, 25 personnel each from the Army, Air Force and Delhi Police and one officer and 24 personnel from the Navy. The Guard of Honour will be commanded by Mai Vikas Sangwan and the services will be coordinated by the Army for this year.

The Defence Ministry announced the unfurling of the national flag will take place with the 21-Gun-Salute by the gunners of the elite 8,711 Field Battery (Ceremonial).

Meanwhile, in view of the Independence Day celebrations the Delhi Police has issued a detailed traffic advisory for the national capital.