Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launches various events virtually from New Delhi to commemorate 75th anniversary of India's Independence

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today launched various events virtually from New Delhi to commemorate the 75th anniversary of India's Independence, being celebrated as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The events included national flag unfurling at various places, product and facility launch, cleaning of statues, Jan Sampark Abhiyaan for veterans and book on deeds of gallantry.

In his address, Mr Singh said, in this Amrit Mahotsav, a glimpse of unity in diversity is visible, which is the life of Indian culture. He said, the spirit of freedom, sovereignty and immortality are not a new or modern sentiment for India. Mentioning about Captain Vikram Batra, the minister said even after seeing death in front he roared Yeh dil maange more. Mr Singh paid tributes to the immortal heros who laid down their lives for their nation. He said, along with the Military Tradition of India, the freedom struggle that took place has a glorious history.

The Minister said, military tradition in India existed hundreds of years before the arrival of the British. Mr Singh said, the idea of Janani Janmabhoomisch Swargadapi Gariyasi originated from India. Talking about self reliance, the Minister said, India was one of the largest importer of weapons in the world, but today the situation has changed. He said, Indian Aircraft Carrier Vikrant has become the biggest symbol of self-reliant India today as 76 per cent of its content is indigenous.

Border Roads Organisation will unfurl the national flag at 75 Important Passes and Places in the country, displaying their resolve in developing border infrastructure. 75 teams of BRO departed today to these remote passes. The most prominent among them is Umlingla Pass, which is the highest motorable road in the world at 19,300 feet in Eastern Ladakh.

The Tri-colour will also be unfurled at prominent infrastructure landmarks like Atal Tunnel, Rohtang and Dhola Sadiya Bridge in the Northeast, besides in friendly foreign countries. Indian Coast Guard will also unfurl the National Flag at 100 islands Pan-India on 15th August as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.