Patriotic fervour swept the nation today as it celebrated its 69th Independence Day, with chief ministers announcing development initiatives, flagging the challenges ahead and pledging to take their states forward on the path of peace and progress.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged to tackle corruption, work for the development of the poor and end communalism during his Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the 17th century Red Fort on Saturday.The celebrations were marked by unfurling of the tricolour, colourful parades and other events in the state capitals.
Students participate in Independence Day celebrations at Vidyagiri in Mangalore. (PTI photo)
Assam police show their skill during 69th Independence Day function in Guwahati on Saturday.(PTI photo)
Deaf & dumb students perform during 69th Independence Day function at Karni Singh Stadium in Bikaner.(PTI photo)
BSF personnel celebrating Independence day at Attari-Wagah border. (PTI photo)
State police personnel march as they take part in Independence Day celebrations in Kolkata. (Reuters photo)
School children with their bodies painted in the tricolour cheer as they pose for a group photograph during Independence Day celebrations at The Manekshaw Parade Grounds in Bangalore. (AFP photo)
Girls performing Giddha during the Independence Day celebration at YPS Stadium, in Patiala, Punjab. (Bharat Bhushan/ HT photo)
Artists from Telangana watch as a flag is waved during Independence Day celebrations at Golkonda Fort in Hyderabad. (AFP photo)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi gestures as he delivers a speech from the ramparts of The Red Fort during Independence Day celebrations. (AFP photo/PIB)