India’s Independence Day 2024: All about the theme, history, significance, guest list, and more

Each subsequent year has seen the nation reflect on its journey, celebrating both achievements and the rich cultural diversity that defines it. In addition to the commemoration of freedom, the day also marks the progress India has made over the decades.

Independence Day 2024: Theme

The theme for this year’s celebrations is “Viksit Bharat,” which translates to “Developed India,” which aligns with the Indian government’s vision to transform the nation into a developed country by 2047, coinciding with the centenary (100 years) of independence.

Every year, the Independence Day celebrations take place at the historic Red Fort in Delhi, where the Prime Minister hoists the national flag and delivers the speech.

Notably, this year three-time Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver his 11th consecutive speech on this occasion.

Independence Day 2024: Guest list 

Farmers, youth, women and the poor — described by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the “four pillars of a developed India”— dominate the list of over 4,000 special guests that the Centre has drawn up for this year’s 78th Independence Day celebrations, however, about 18,000 e-invitation cards have been issued, in total.

The event at Red Fort will host special guests, who have each been invited by a family member. The guests have been categorised as follows:

• 1,000 from the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare category,
• 600 from the Youth Affairs category,
• 300 from the Women and Child Development category,
• 300 from Panchayati Raj and Rural Development,
• 300 from Tribal Affairs,
• 200 from School Education and Literacy,
• 200 from Border Roads Organisation/Ministry of Defence,
• 150 from Health and Family Welfare,
• 150 from Sports,
• 1,200 from the Niti Aayog category.

Additionally, the government is encouraging public participation through initiatives like the Har Ghar Tiranga movement, urging citizens to hoist the national flag at their homes and businesses.

As India approaches its 78th Independence Day, the nation stands united in celebrating its rich history, honouring the sacrifices of its heroes, and looking forward to a future of growth and development.