VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html In 2021, Vishal Garg, CEO of $7 billion company fired 900 people on Zoom call; five years later he has been sacked; read ‘termination letter’ Meet Vera Wang, the Hawaii high school senior who built a coconut-based ocean filter as a sophomore; two years later, she found fungi in coconut husks that can biodegrade plastic and sunscreen Soren reaches out to protesting students, vows changes in exam system NEW DELHI: Amid a three-week-long protest by students demanding the cancellation of flawed examinations, Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren on Saturday assured that his government would bring changes to the examination system and ensure greater transparency, particularly in tests conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).Addressing a gathering at a state-level Independence Day celebration, Soren said the concerns and aspirations of the state’s youth were important to his government and urged them to have faith in the steps being taken to reform the system.”For me, the youth of the state are very important to me and their faith in us. We have decided to bring changes in the system. Transparent examination will be ensured,” Soren said.The chief minister said the government had launched “Chhatron Ki Baat – Chhatron Ke Sath” to seek students’ views on improving the education system. He said students, along with their parents and teachers, could play an important role in shaping a better education system.”We will not indulge in a blame game but ensure justice. We are making changes in the system. We will come out with the academic calendar and take steps for transparency (in) exams. We have started Chhatron Ki Baat – Chhatron Ke Sath, and I want the parents of students and their teachers to give suggestions, and we will examine them with experts and bring them as per rules and constitutional norms,” Soren said.‘Talent will not be allowed to go to waste due to mafia’Soren also sought to reassure young aspirants that their careers and ambitions would not be derailed by irregularities or alleged examination-related malpractice. He promised that the government would work to prevent talented candidates from losing out because of a serious challenge posed by the “mafia”.”I want to urge the youth that their dreams will be protected. I want to assure that talent will not be allowed to go to waste due to the mafia. This is a serious challenge before the nation. For me, the youth of the state are very important to me and their faith on us. We have decided to bring changes in the system. Transparent examination will be ensured,” Soren said.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesEarlier on Saturday, student leader Ravinder Paswan said the protesting students would keep their demands aside for Independence Day and instead participate in celebrations centred on the country and nationalism.”Today is the 80th Independence Day. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for Independence Day to all the students, youth, general public, and social justice advocates across the country on this occassion. We are organising a grand Tiranga Yatra to mark Independence Day. Students and young people from across Jharkhand are participating in this Tiranga Yatra to display their love for the country and their nationalism,” he said.Students in Jharkhand have been protesting over irregularities in examinations conducted by the JPSC and JSSC. Among their key demands is the cancellation of the JSSC-CGL examination.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke ₹1 lakh crore push for ideas, innovation and research Khushbu Sundar marks 40 years in South cinema with emotional note to fans, remembers journey since ‘Kaliyuga Pandavulu’: ‘I wouldn’t be who I am today without you’ PM Modi lauds four times production; push for hypersonic tech PM Modi addressing nation on 80th Independence Day NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation from the ramparts of the iconic Red Fort in Delhi as India celebrated its 80th Independence Day.Click here for live updatesIn a special first, National Song “Vande Mataram” was played for the first time at the ceremony.Greeting citizens on the 79th anniversary of Independence, the prime minister posted on X: “We remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment ensured the end of colonial rule. Their dreams continue to inspire us as we work together to build a Viksit Bharat.””Powered by 140 crore Indians, our nation is scaling new heights of progress across different sectors. May this journey keep progressing at an even greater pace in the times to come,” he added.Here are the key highlights:80th Independence Day: PM Modi concludes address as Vande Mataram played againPrime Minister Narendra Modi concludes his address to the nation on 80th Independence Day. Vande Mataram played after his speech as well.80th Independence Day: 50 Indian companies in the Fortune 500PM Modi set an ambition for India to have 50 companies among the Fortune 500. He also called for Indian firms to emerge as global leaders across banking, pharma, law, consulting, accounting and technology.80th Independence Day: PM Modi calls for a drug-free IndiaPM Modi highlighted the Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan and urged families to join the campaign against drug abuse. He called for collective efforts to protect young people from the menace of drugs.80th Independence Day: PM Modi on India’s First Digital CensusThe prime minister noted that India’s first Digital Census is currently underway. He urgrf families to sit together and provide accurate information. He stressed that reliable data will help the government formulate better policies.80th Independence Day: PM Modi calls 33% women’s reservation ‘need of the hour’33% reservation for women is call of the hour, appeal to all parties to support and take credit for it: PM Modi.80th Independence Day: PM Modi announces “Saptdhara” reforms for Viksit BharatAddressing the nation from the Red Fort, PM Modi outlined his ‘Sapt Dhara’ (seven streams of strength) vision, calling for India to harness its potential in agriculture and food processing, technology and innovation, Gati Shakti, defence, the green and blue economy, and soft power. He said the initiative, along with the energy and talent of India’s youth, would help the country achieve in the next five to seven years what could not be accomplished in the previous five to seven decades.Manufacturing power: Build complete domestic end-to-end value chains, from design to components, focusing on zero-defect quality, cost, and global scaleAgriculture and food processing: Create integrated farm-to-export supply chains for millets, spices, and fruits while transitioning to chemical-free farmingTechnology and innovation: Evolve from a tech market into a global innovation hub leading in AI, Quantum, Space, Robotics, DPI, and Made-in-India 6GGati Shakti: Establish high-speed, seamless multimodal logistics connecting cities, highways, rail, airports, and modern industrial sea portsDefence Shakti: Achieve complete strategic self-reliance by pioneering and exporting next-gen defence technologies like drones, counter-drone systems, and hypersonicsGreen and Blue Economy: Scale sustainable growth through Green Hydrogen, renewables, and energy storage alongside full utilization of ocean, coastal, and marine potentialIndia’s soft power: Globalize Indian culture, Yoga, Ayurveda, and tourism while establishing global leadership in gaming, VFX, animation, and the creative economy80th Independence Day: More semiconductor plants likely to become operational in next seven-eight yearsPM Modi said India has made significant progress towards self-reliance in the semiconductor sector, with three major plants already operational and their output being exported. He added that another five to eight semiconductor plants are expected to become operational over the next seven to eight years.80th Independence Day: India to get five nuclear reactors in this decade, says PM ModiEnergy security is the demand of the time. We are moving forward with the aim of 100 gigawatts of nuclear power by 2047. We aim to start five new nuclear reactors in this decade: PM Narendra Modi80th Independence Day: PM Modi reiterates vision of a developed India by 2047PM Modi reiterated India’s ambition to become a developed nation by 2047, when the country marks 100 years of independence, and said the vision would require the collective effort and hard work of its 1.4 billion citizens.80th Independence Day: PM Modi assures flood-hit families of nation’s support“Recently, parts of the country have been hit by floods and landslides. Many families have been affected, and we deeply empathise with their suffering. I assure the affected families that the government and the entire nation stand with them,” PM Modi said during his address.80th Independence Day: 5,000 guests from diverse backgrounds attend Independence Day celebrationsThe special invitees included beneficiaries of various government schemes, women entrepreneurs, volunteers, farmers, artisans, sanitation workers, students, innovators, scientists, start-up founders, interns and other top-performing citizens. Over 1,500 people from different states and Union territories, dressed in traditional attire, also attended the ceremony.80th Independence Day: PM Modi’s signature turbanPM Modi Modi arrived at the Red Fort on Saturday wearing a striking red tie-and-dye turban with a long trailing end. The turban featured intricate red, green and white patterns, reflecting styles associated with Rajasthani and Gujarati traditions. Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesRead full story here80th Independence Day: ‘Vande Mataram’ played for first time as PM Modi hoists TricolourNational song “Vande Mataram” was played for the first time at the Independence Day ceremony. PM Modi began his speech by addressing this, saying, “This is the first time since independence that Vande Matram has resonated from ramparts of Red Fort.”80th Independence Day: PM Modi’s 13th Red Fort address This was Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 13th consecutive Independence Day address since his first in 2014. Ahead of his national address, the prime minister visited Raj Ghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian meals123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Sreeleela resumes shooting for Kartik Aaryan starrer romantic musical directed by Anurag Basu in Mumbai – Report PM Modi’s tricolour-inspired Independence Day look puts India’s rich textile heritage in the spotlight How to build a weekly home-temple rhythm: A Practical Guide for US and UK Hindu families What it means for Delhi’s real estate RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat (File photo) NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday called on people tostrengthen India’s independence by making the country happy, prosperous, and secure so that the country becomes “Vishwaguru”, noting that many people and forces are working against this goal.“We must make the nation happy, prosperous and secure, and ensure that it makes its rightful contribution to the world. However, many people and forces are working against this goal and creating obstacles. Without abandoning our principles, we must face these challenges and work to make India a ‘Vishwaguru’ — a guide to the world,” Bhagwat said at a gathering after hoisting the national flag at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur.Bhagwat emphasised that Independence Day is a matter of pride for all Indians. The Sangh chief stated that if the freedom struggle is traced to 1857, India’s ancestors made sacrifices for nearly 90 years to secure independence.“We feel proud of their (freedom fighters’) sacrifices and are happy that their struggle reached a successful conclusion. But along with this, we must also remember that preserving the freedom achieved through so much effort and sacrifice is our responsibility,” he stressed.Saffron, he noted, represents action, knowledge and sacrifice. “The freedom of a nation is achieved through hard work and sacrifice, and after independence, these qualities help make the nation prosperous and secure.”White represents purity and discipline, while green symbolises prosperity. When sacrifice, commitment, hard work and knowledge become part of people’s lives, society remains peaceful and minds become pure, he added.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesBhagwat also emphasised that individuals may hold different views, but this diversity reflects unity. “The Ashoka Chakra has many spokes, but all of them emerge from a single central point.”The Ashoka Chakra represents individual and social awareness, with its spokes kept within the limits of dharma, or discipline. “That is why we have placed this Dharma Chakra at the centre of our national flag,” he added, urging people to reflect on the flag’s symbols and incorporate their values into their lives.India will remain an independent nation, Bhagwat asserted, but its responsibility extends further: “This is our duty today” to make the country a meaningful contributor to humanity.(With PTI inputs)Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian meals123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Josh Hazlewood makes Australian Test history, joins elite club with 300th wicket NLSIU students disapprove of BCI chairman and CJI attending convocation Mammootty gets stranded near Tirupattur in Tamil Nadu after wrong route due to highway closure, fan rides 10 km to guide him: ‘Our friend’ Akshay Kumar says his son Aarav is working for Rs 4,500 while learning fashion; the parenting lesson Indian parents can take from it How to strengthen Mars (Mangal) without fear-based remedies Bat activity jumped 50% over Midwest solar farms as farmers planted nearby fields, and researchers think vegetation beneath panels may be the reason What’s in it for Gen Z in PM Modi’s Independence Day speech – AI skills, free coaching, sports & jobs File photo: PM Modi and Congress MP Jairam Ramesh NEW DELHI: Congress on Saturday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his Independence Day remarks on “dimaagi Naxals”, with party general secretary Jairam Ramesh calling the description a “sure sign of desperation”.Ramesh said PM Modi had earlier used the term “urban Naxals” for his opponents and was now referring to them as “dimaagi Naxals”.”First he called his opponents ‘urban naxals’. Now he calls them ‘dimaagi naxals’. It is a sure sign of his desperation,” Ramesh said in a post on X.He further alleged that the prime minister ends up doing what those he labels “urban naxals” or “dimaagi naxals” demand or advocate.”It is not for nothing that the PM has a MA being the ‘Master Abuser’ in Entire Political Science that he is,” Ramesh added.PM Modi warns against ‘intellectual Naxals’PM Modi raised the issue during his 13th consecutive Independence Day address from the Red Fort, saying that while armed Naxalism had been eliminated from large parts of the country, its ideological influence remained a concern.”We have succeeded in getting rid of armed Naxals in the jungles, but the ‘dimaagi Naxals’ are looking for opportunities to create violence, unrest…. They want to drag the society on the wrong path,” the prime minister said.”These intellectual Naxals have to be identified and isolated,” he added.PM Modi also said people with a Maoist mindset had for years established themselves in government institutions and influenced public policy.He said decades of Naxalism and Maoist violence had destroyed the lives and aspirations of millions of young people.The prime minister said more than 3,500 police and security personnel had been killed in the conflict and claimed that his government had made ending Naxalism a priority after taking office in 2014.Congress attacks government on Independence DayRamesh’s response came as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also criticised the PM Modi government during Independence Day celebrations at the party headquarters in Delhi.Kharge accused the government of failing to deliver fundamental rights, avoiding parliamentary accountability and pursuing divisive politics. He also challenged PM Modi’s claims of transformation, crediting previous Congress-led governments with initiatives including the Right to Food, Right to Education and the Right to Work through MGNREGA.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”From the Red Fort, the PM claims credit for everything; it is a mercy he doesn’t claim that the world survives only because of him,” Kharge said.He also accused the government of using “hate campaigns” against protesters and alleged that it was “crushing the poor”.For Congress, Kharge said, freedom meant ensuring education, opportunities and dignity rather than merely holding political power.The BJP, meanwhile, attacked leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi for not attending the official Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari alleged that Gandhi’s absence reflected the mindset of a “Dimagi Naxal” ecosystem.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian meals123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke PM Modi announces free online coaching for competitive exams, says coaching burdening poor, middle class Asha Bhosle’s unseen ‘candid moment’ with AR Rahman from her final recording session surfaces online: ‘What a beautiful, full circle moment’ 5 powerful words that can transform your manifestation practice Archaeologists found a young woman, believed to be 14 to 19, buried with a 32-to 34-week fetus in a Swedish cave; the remains may be up to 9,500 years old Kharge hails Congress role in India’s development NEW DELHI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday invoked India’s freedom struggle and the legacy of its first generation of leaders, remembering Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru while highlighting the Congress’s contribution to the country’s nation-building journey.Remembering Nehru’s contribution to building modern India, Kharge on Independence Day said the former prime minister had laid the foundations of a democratic and secular nation and established institutions including IITs, IIMs and public sector undertakings.”Nehru ji laid the foundation of a modern, democratic and secular India. He established IITs, IIMs, PSUs. Nehru ji did a lot for the country, but he did not possess arrogance,” the Congress chief said.The Congress party head also recalled Mahtama Gandhi’s “Do or Die” call during the Quit India Movement, highlighting the role played by young Indians when senior leaders were jailed by the British.He said, When Mahatma Gandhi gave the slogan ‘Do or Die’ and all the senior leaders were in jail, it was the youth of the country who carried forward the ‘Quit India Movement’.”Kharge said the freedom struggle had envisioned more than independence from colonial rule, arguing that India’s freedom fighters had also dreamed of eliminating poverty, unemployment, untouchability, injustice and fear.”Our freedom fighters had not only dreamed of liberation from British rule, but also from poverty, unemployment, untouchability, injustice, and fear. Independence was not just a change of power, but a resolve to make every Indian’s life better. Every Prime Minister from the Congress has advanced this very vision,” veteran Congress leader added.‘Someone speaking from Red Fort claims they have done everything’Kharge also invoked the contributions of former prime ministers Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi, crediting them with strengthening India’s agricultural, military and strategic capabilities.”Shastri ji strengthened the foundations of white and green revolution in the country. Indira ji strengthened India’s military and strategic capabilities, and also played a major role in creation of Bangladesh. We also integrated Sikkim with India. All these were done by Congress party leaders, but someone speaking from Red Fort claims that they have done everything. It’s a mercy they don’t claim that whatever remains of the world has survived because of them,” he said.Taking aim at what he described as the BJP-led government’s tendency to claim credit for past achievements, Kharge asserted that Congress had played the dominant role in India’s development.”The development you see in the country today is because of Congress. Congress has 90% contribution in development you witnessed in the country today. We improved people’s financial condition, not change names. But, these people just take credit. This will not go on for long,” Congress president said.Kharge backs protesting youth, attacks BJP-RSSKharge also trained his guns on the government’s handling of youth grievances, saying young people were being denied opportunities and their protests were being met with hostility.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesLoP in Rajya Sabha said, “Today, the dreams of the youth are being trampled. The country’s youth are agitating, and we along with our Leader of the Opposition — are supporting them. The Constitution grants everyone the right to protest for their cause; they are not anti-nationals. Hate campaigns are launched against those who protest.”He added, “Our Leader of the Opposition declared years ago that we would not spread hate but instead spread a message of love. However, the BJP and RSS oppose this. They worked against the country even before independence and continue to do so today by dividing Hindus and Muslims. The current government is crushing the poor. We will continue to fight against the government.”Kharge’s remarks came on 80th Independence Day, which he celebrated alongside Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian meals123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke IND vs SL 1st Test | Scary moment in Galle: Nishan Madushka hit on helmet by KL Rahul sweep – WATCH Vikram’s Lar Gibbon controversy: Actor’s connection explained as Forest Department investigation traces monkey to Erode resident Psychology says people who prefer staying home on weekends may simply be recharging, not avoiding others PM Modi unveils ‘Sapta Dhara’ for ‘Viksit Bharat’: What is his seven-point roadmap PM sets global goals on I-Day NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urged India’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to seize the opportunities created by the country’s free trade agreements (FTAs) and take Indian products to markets across the world.Addressing the nation on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day, PM Modi said India’s growing global stature and the FTAs signed with around 40 countries since 2014 had opened major opportunities for domestic businesses, particularly MSMEs.”We have to reach the world. Everything that India produces should reach the world market,” PM Modi said, highlighting textiles, machinery, pharmaceuticals and seafood as sectors with considerable potential to expand their global footprint.The Prime Minister, however, stressed that Indian businesses would need to meet international standards and focus on quality if they were to compete successfully in global markets.Pointing to the scale of India’s ambitions, PM Modi called for a greater number of Indian companies to emerge as global leaders. He asked why India should not have 50 companies in the Fortune 500 within the next decade and said the country should aim to have an Indian bank among the world’s top five.He also set out ambitions for Indian pharmaceutical companies to feature among the world’s top five, while calling for globally leading Indian firms in sectors such as law, ratings, consulting and accounting.PM Modi said the country’s textile industry, stretching from Ludhiana in Punjab to Tirupur in Tamil Nadu, had the potential to significantly expand its global presence. He also pointed to India’s fisheries and seafood sector as another area that could benefit from the export opportunities created by FTAs.The Prime Minister said India had the talent, capabilities, linguistic strength and a long history needed to compete on the global stage. He urged businesses to build brands that could earn international recognition and turn India’s economic rise into a stronger global corporate presence.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”India’s technology companies should be a scoreboard in the world,” he said, stressing that the creation of globally recognised Indian brands should be treated as a national goal.The PM also highlighted India’s stable political mandate, vibrant democracy, strong judicial system and constitutional framework, saying these factors had contributed to the country’s growing recognition and respect around the world.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian meals123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Chaos in Galle! Yashasvi Jaiswal’s bizarre run-out leaves KL Rahul and India stunned – Watch Petrol export levy cut to nil, diesel and ATF duties retained: What changes from August 15 ‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’ trailer: Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju’s romance gets an age-gap twist as Girish A D returns after ‘Premalu’ Who is Captain Sonia Singh Chauhan? The army officer who assisted PM Modi in hoisting the flag at the 80th Independence Day celebrations How Aaron Rodgers’ wife Brittani’s constant ‘pass protection’ could affect their marriage? Therapist reveals the hidden risk CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke (centre) and chief spokespersons Saurav Das (left) and Ashutosh Ranka also present. (File photo) NEW DELHI: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Saturday claimed that its official Instagram account was taken down in the morning and later restored.As the account was allegedly taken down on August 15, the outfit described it as an attempt to “muzzle our voice on Independence Day.”“What a shame that those who oppose CJP chose India’s Independence Day to try to muzzle our voice. We will not be intimidated by such cowardly acts!” the CJP said in a post.CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke also reacted to the alleged takedown, saying, “They took down the official Instagram handle of Cockroach Janta Party. Bloody cowards!”The account was restored later in the day, according to the group.The development comes amid a series of campaigns by the CJP in recent weeks, including its outreach on the condition of government and village schools and protests over issues concerning students and education.It had launched a campaign urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the country’s youth in his Independence Day message, raising questions about unemployment, education and concerns among young people.The CJP had also led a successful protest in Delhi seeking the resignation of then-Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and other issues affecting students, with Dipke emerging as the outfit’s prominent face.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesDipke founded the CJP in May in response to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant’s “cockroaches” remark, which was reported to have been directed at the country’s youth. The CJI later clarified that he was misquoted and that his comments were directed strictly at individuals who enter professions such as the bar using fake or fraudulent degrees, not at the youth.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian meals123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Meet Kevin Sun, the 17-year-old Massachusetts student who built a dissolvable wireless tag to help recycling plants sort plastic When Sean Penn attempted to spark romance with ex Robin Wright after their divorce: ‘She’s absolutely the love of his life’ “To other countries I may go as a tourist, but to India I come as a pilgrim.”; What he said about how the Indian freedom struggle inspired him and shaped his beliefs Mobile lab brings chemistry experiments to schoolchildren | Nagpur News Finlay Tarling dies at 19: Tributes pour in for British cycling star, exploring the young rider’s career achievements after fatal Volta a Portugal crash Modi says India overcame crises through citizen-first governance and strategic planning. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India had faced a series of crises over the past 10-12 years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and wars in Ukraine and West Asia, but maintained that a citizen-first approach helped the country navigate the challenges.Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on India’s 80th Independence Day, Modi said the country emerged from the pandemic only to confront a tense global environment.“In the last 20-12 years, we have faced many dangers. As soon as we emerged from Covid, there was news of wars that started to arise from Ukraine side and West Asia. An atmosphere of tension prevailed. God knows what all the predictions the predictors made!,” he said.PM Modi also accused some people of deliberately creating anxiety by spreading rumours about shortages of essential supplies during the pandemic.“Some people gain joy in keeping the nation terrified by spreading rumours that vaccines will not be available, petrol, diesel, and fertiliser will not be available in the country. Some people were gaining joy from creating an atmosphere of anxiousness in the country,” he said.He added, “Some people took delight in trying to terrify the people of India and plunge them into worry. Yet, the nation has witnessed how the well-conceived plans of the last 10-12 years are bearing fruit.”The Prime Minister said the government’s response to the pandemic was guided by the principle of “Nagrik Devo Bhava”, under which citizens remained the priority.Turning to development, Modi cited the expansion of piped gas infrastructure as an example of the changes achieved over the past 12 years.“12 years ago, piped gas lines were available in only 70 cities. In the last 12 years, this number has grown to 700 cities. Today, 1.75 crore households are connected to piped gas lines in the country,” he said.Modi also said India had made progress in eliminating Naxalism, while remembering security personnel killed in operations against the insurgency. He said more than 3,500 security personnel had been killed “in order to protect the people”.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesFurther, in his 75-minutes speech from the Red Fort, the Prime Minister urged political parties to advance women’s representation in legislatures, calling for 33 per cent representation for women in state assemblies and the Lok Sabha.“Come forward and celebrate the strength and capability of our women,” Modi said, urging parties to “as swiftly as possible” ensure greater representation.He also expressed solidarity with families affected by recent floods and landslides, saying, “We, and the entire nation, stand with them.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke ‘Haiwaan’ actor Saif Ali Khan stabbing case reaches key stage as court frames charges against accused more than a year after attack, trial likey to begin soon – Report Abhishek Malhan aka Fukra Insaan faces backlash after being accused of ‘body and age shaming’ fellow contestants Antarctica once had a rainforest just 900 km from the South Pole. Fossil roots reveal how warm it was 90 million years ago About 90% of fish found dead along stretches of the Mississippi River were invasive silver and bighead carp, while native species are handling the harsh conditions better RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat (File photo) NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday called on people tostrengthen India’s independence by making the country happy, prosperous, and secure so that the country becomes “Vishwaguru”, noting that many people and forces are working against this goal.“We must make the nation happy, prosperous and secure, and ensure that it makes its rightful contribution to the world. However, many people and forces are working against this goal and creating obstacles. Without abandoning our principles, we must face these challenges and work to make India a ‘Vishwaguru’ — a guide to the world,” Bhagwat said at a gathering after hoisting the national flag at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur.Bhagwat emphasised that Independence Day is a matter of pride for all Indians. The Sangh chief stated that if the freedom struggle is traced to 1857, India’s ancestors made sacrifices for nearly 90 years to secure independence.“We feel proud of their (freedom fighters’) sacrifices and are happy that their struggle reached a successful conclusion. But along with this, we must also remember that preserving the freedom achieved through so much effort and sacrifice is our responsibility,” he stressed.Saffron, he noted, represents action, knowledge and sacrifice. “The freedom of a nation is achieved through hard work and sacrifice, and after independence, these qualities help make the nation prosperous and secure.”White represents purity and discipline, while green symbolises prosperity. When sacrifice, commitment, hard work and knowledge become part of people’s lives, society remains peaceful and minds become pure, he added.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesBhagwat also emphasised that individuals may hold different views, but this diversity reflects unity. “The Ashoka Chakra has many spokes, but all of them emerge from a single central point.”The Ashoka Chakra represents individual and social awareness, with its spokes kept within the limits of dharma, or discipline. “That is why we have placed this Dharma Chakra at the centre of our national flag,” he added, urging people to reflect on the flag’s symbols and incorporate their values into their lives.India will remain an independent nation, Bhagwat asserted, but its responsibility extends further: “This is our duty today” to make the country a meaningful contributor to humanity.(With PTI inputs)Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Independence Day: Gautam Gambhir, Shubman Gill hoist Tricolour in Galle ahead of India’s historic 600th Test – WATCH RRB JE CEN 04/2026 recruitment 2026 begins for 3,993 posts; check eligibility, fees, details and direct link Quote of the day by Cameron Diaz: ‘Discipline is what helps you consciously do things…it is having a strong awareness that your choices have impact,’ a life lesson from ‘The Holiday’ star on how discipline helps us take full agency over our lives