After enduring a generation of colonialism and exploitation, India today is a sovereign country that matches shoulders with leading nations of the world. Not only the most sought after, present India is a prime example of determination and bravery. After fighting all odds for its freedom, leaders and the masses came together to build it back from dust. India's emergence as an increasingly important power, has been a significant development in the international order and especially for UK foreign policy.
On the eve of the 72nd Independence Day, the Central Government has tightened security all across the country. Capital New Delhi has inducted the country's first all-woman Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for anti-terrorist operations to secure the function at Red Fort, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation.
The 36 women, who have underwent rigorous training of around 15 months from specialists all across India and abroad, come from northeastern states. While 13 of them are from Assam, the rest hail from Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Manipur. Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who himself inducted the unit, said the women commandos will be deployed at Red Fort and India Gate during the celebrations.
The official celebration this year will see PM Modi arrive at Lahori Gate of Red Fort, where he will be received by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, MoS Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre and Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra. The Guard of Honour contingent for the PM will consist of one officer and 24 men each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police. With the Navy being the Coordinating Service this year, the Guard of Honour will be commanded by Commander PR Jagan Mohan of the Indian Navy.
The PM, after inspecting the Guard of Honour, Modi will proceed to the Red Fort ramparts, where he will be greeted by the Defence Minister, MoS Defence, Chief of the Army Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa. The GoC Delhi area will conduct the Prime Minister to the dais to unfurl the National Flag. The unfurling will synchronize with the 21 Gun Salute fired by the valiant gunners of the elite 2281 Field Battery (Ceremonial).
After unfurling the tricolour, MOdi will address the Nation, after which, school children and NCC Cadets will sing the National Anthem.
