Kathmandu— India is preparing for its 80th Independence Day on August 15 with a series of historic and symbolic changes to the traditional ceremony at the Red Fort in New Delhi, including the first-ever singing of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ from its ramparts and a strong emphasis on recognizing the achievements of young Indians. The Ministry of Defence announced that the new ceremonial sequence will begin with the playing of 'Vande Mataram' before the flag hoisting and national anthem, while celebrations across the country will highlight the contributions of youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship. Defence officials confirmed the event has been in planning for some time and is not a response to recent demonstrations.

Ceremonial Firsts at Red Fort

For the first time, ‘Vande Mataram’ will be sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort as part of the Independence Day ceremony. Defence Secretary RK Singh explained that Prime Minister Modi will arrive on the rampart, followed by the playing of the national song and then the unfurling of the flag accompanied by the national anthem. This change marks a significant addition to the traditional sequence of events at the historic fort.

Spotlight on ‘Yuva Shakti’

This year's celebrations will place particular emphasis on 'Yuva Shakti,' or youth power, recognizing the success and contributions of students and young citizens throughout India. The focus extends beyond Delhi, with examples cited including young start-ups supported by innovation hubs like T-Works in Hyderabad, which are driving significant changes across various sectors.

The initiative also highlights the growing role of young engineers in developing affordable space technologies and addressing challenges such as space debris, successfully transitioning prototypes into marketable innovations.

Planned Initiative, Not Reactive

Responding to questions about whether the emphasis on youth was a reaction to recent demonstrations, Defence Secretary Singh clarified that the plan to celebrate the success and contributions of young people at the Independence Day celebrations predates any other event. He emphasized that this initiative has been in development for some time.

Strict Adherence to Protocol

Alongside the new ceremonial elements, strict adherence to established protocols will be maintained. The Leader of the Opposition has been formally invited to attend the national event, and seating arrangements will follow the Table of Precedence, positioning them after Cabinet Ministers.

Preparations for the 80th Independence Day celebrations are now in their final stages, promising a blend of historical tradition and recognition of India’s rising generation.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.