Independence Day 2025: How India’s Military Gets Ready for the Grand August 15 Parade

India will mark its 79th Independence Day on Friday, August 15, 2025, with the nation’s eyes set on the iconic Red Fort. As tradition goes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the tricolour, address the nation, and preside over a ceremony that blends military precision with deep patriotic fervour.

The Iconic 21-Gun Salute

The celebrations will begin with a Guard of Honour by the Armed Forces and Delhi Police, followed by the hoisting of the National Flag, the National Anthem, and the thundering 21-gun salute this year delivered by India’s own 105mm light field guns. Eight of these guns will fire the salute in just 52 seconds, perfectly timed with the anthem.

Adding a visual flourish, Indian Air Force helicopters will shower the venue with flower petals, while the ceremony will conclude with the release of vibrant tri-coloured balloons into the Delhi sky.

Full-Dress Rehearsals in Action

Preparations are already in full swing. The Army, Navy, Air Force, police forces, and cultural groups have been holding full-dress rehearsals at the Red Fort. These sessions ensure flawless coordination in marching formations, musical performances, and aerial drills. Fighter jets have also been practising breathtaking formations overhead.

PM’s Call for Public Ideas

The Ministry of Defence has shared detailed route maps, traffic guidelines, and enclosure access information on the Rashtraparv Portal to make attending easier. In a social media post, PM Modi invited citizens to share their ideas and themes for this year’s speech on MyGov and the NaMo App. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "As we approach this year's Independence Day, I look forward to hearing from my fellow Indians! What themes or ideas would you like to see reflected in this year’s Independence Day speech? Share your thoughts on the Open Forums on MyGov and the NaMo App...”

The Red Fort ceremony is steeped in history. On August 15, 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru first unfurled the tricolour from the Lahori Gate, setting a tradition that every Prime Minister has since followed. This year, as the flag rises once again, the moment will echo with 78 years of independence and the unyielding spirit of a nation that continues to march forward.