VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html PM Modi’s Independence Day speech: Energy security demand of our times; no shortage of gas, fuel, urea EMF founding member Derran ‘Derry’ Brownson passes away at 55: ‘Nothing will ever be the same again without our bandmate and friend’ “I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.” The Texas seventh-grader who found a way to make algae produce 77% more oil in five days Trump claims ‘young, beautiful girls’ thank him for making Washington safer Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation during the 8oth Independence Day celebrations, at Red Fort in New Delhi. (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday delivered his 13th consecutive Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, becoming the second prime minister after Jawaharlal Nehru to achieve the milestone.PM Modi has addressed the nation from the Red Fort every Independence Day since taking office in 2014. His latest address came on India’s 80th Independence Day.Also read: 80th Independence Day – A throwback at PM Modi’s signature Red Fort turbansNehru, India’s first prime minister, holds the record for the longest uninterrupted run of Independence Day addresses, having delivered 17 consecutive speeches from 1947 to 1963.PM Modi surpassed former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who delivered 11 consecutive Independence Day speeches between 1966 and 1976.PM Modi hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort before beginning his address, with the ceremony synchronised with a 21-gun salute by the ceremonial battery.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 MediaVideos79 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 Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom 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 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot 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 Rishabh Pant on brink of history, eyes record no Indian batter has achieved in Tests With $52.3 billion raised, FCNR(B) scheme to close a month early Check scorecard date, qualifying marks and download steps Farah Khan opens up about her daughters’ insecurities: ‘They think they are very ugly’ ‘Fragile 5 to fastest growing’: PM Modi talks of India’s economic growth during Independence Day speech File photo: PM Modi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers and opposition leaders on Saturday extended Independence Day greetings to citizens as India marked its 80th Independence Day, with leaders remembering the freedom struggle while highlighting their visions for the country’s future.Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to freedom fighters and said their courage and sacrifice continued to inspire India’s journey towards a developed nation.Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, meanwhile, said constitutional values, democratic institutions and social harmony had faced “serious challenges” over the past decade.PM Modi remembers freedom fighters, calls for faster progressIn a post on X, PM Modi paid tribute to the freedom fighters who fought against colonial rule and said their dreams continued to inspire the country.”Warm greetings on the occasion of Independence Day. 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,” he wrote.PM Modi added that India, “powered by 140 crore Indians”, was scaling new heights of progress and expressed hope that the country’s growth journey would accelerate further.Before his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, PM Modi also visited Raj Ghat and paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.Also read: PM Modi dons red tie-and-dye turban for Independence Day addressThe Prime Minister is leading the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort, with this year’s ceremony also marking 150 years of Vande Mataram and highlighting the role of youth in India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh pay tribute to freedom fightersUnion home minister Amit Shah also extended his greetings and paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during the freedom struggle.”Heartfelt Independence Day greetings to all fellow citizens of the country,” Shah said in a post on X.He said the country should use the occasion to resolve to accelerate the creation of a “developed, prosperous, and self-reliant India”.Defence minister Rajnath Singh said the freedom struggle had given Indians not only political freedom but also the responsibility to shape the country’s future.He called for a collective resolve to build a secure, strong, prosperous, self-reliant and developed India, while preserving its heritage and pursuing modernity, progress and innovation.Kharge flags concerns over constitutional valuesCongress president Mallikarjun Kharge struck a different note in his Independence Day message, saying India had made significant progress but that many aspirations remained unfulfilled.”Over the past decade, our Constitutional values, democratic institutions and social harmony have faced serious challenges,” Kharge said.He said freedom meant more than liberation from British rule and included the constitutional guarantees of equality, dignity, justice and freedom of expressionAlso read: ‘Vande Mataram’ played for first time as PM Modi addresses nationKharge also called for greater opportunities for young people, dignity and justice for farmers, equality for women and the “full measure of equality and justice” for Dalits, Adivasis, OBCs, minorities and economically weaker sections.He said the country’s greatest resolve on Independence Day should be “hope”.Akhilesh, Sharad Pawar, Nitish Kumar extend greetingsSamajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called on citizens to protect the Constitution, saying: “Freedom comes from the Constitution itself.”He urged people to pledge to protect and uphold the continuity of the Constitution.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesNCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar said the freedom secured through the sacrifices and patriotism of countless people was a responsibility for every citizen.He called for building a prosperous, capable and inclusive India while preserving constitutional values.Former Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar also extended his “heartiest congratulations and best wishes” to people across the state and the country on Independence Day.The messages came as India marked 79 years since gaining independence from British rule in 1947, with political leaders across the spectrum remembering the freedom struggle while setting out differing visions for the country’s future.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 MediaVideos79 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 Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom 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 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot 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 Aug 15, 2026, 07:57 IST FMCG companies see recovery in consumption growth ‘DC’ vs ‘GDN’ box office collections day 8: Lokesh Kanagaraj film earns Rs 2.86 Cr India net; worldwide gross reaches Rs 70.23 Cr 80th Independence Day: A throwback at PM Modi’s signature Red Fort turbans Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the 80th Independence day addressed the nation from Red Fort. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, marking his 13th consecutive Independence Day address as prime minister.PM Modi hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort, with the ceremony synchronised with a 21-gun salute fired by the ceremonial gunners of the 1721 Field Battery.The ceremonial battery used indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns. It was commanded by Major Pawan Singh Shekhawat, while Naib Subedar Anuthosh Sarkar served as the Gun Position Officer.Addressing the nation, PM Modi paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and those who fought for India’s freedom.”I pay my tributes to Bapu and all the freedom fighters and revolutionaries on this Independence Day.”The prime minister also invoked the patriotic spirit associated with the national song, saying the country was united in celebrating the Tricolour.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”Today, every heart is beating with the rhythm of Vande Mataram. Aaj har ghar Tiranga hai, har mann Tiranga hai.”The Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort is the centrepiece of the country’s national celebrations, with the prime minister traditionally using the occasion to outline the government’s priorities and address the nation on key issues.PM Modi’s top quotesOn freedom fighters”I pay my tributes to Bapu and all the freedom fighters and revolutionaries on this Independence Day.”On Vande Mataram and the Tricolour”Today, every heart is beating with the rhythm of Vande Mataram. Aaj har ghar Tiranga hai, har mann Tiranga hai.”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 MediaVideos79 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 Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom 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 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot 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 India vs Sri Lanka Live Score, 1st Test: Shubman Gill leads India into 600th Test in Galle Claude downloads surge 30x, Gemini doubles Robbie Williams says he has a ‘little bit of autism’ anad uses creativity to cope: ‘It’s best to train my brain to do something better…’ 80th Independence Day: ‘Vande Mataram’ played for first time as PM Modi addresses nation Wholesale inflation eases to 9.8% in July ‘On Golden Pond’ director Mark Rydell passes away at 97; Bette Midler pays tribute Numerology Predictions Today, August 15, 2026: Read your personalised forecast for numbers 1 to 9 US Army temporarily halts Apache training missions after two soldiers killed in Texas crash India’s red-ball reset: Shubman Gill leads India into 600th Test against spin-heavy Sri Lanka ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ box office collection Day 16: Tom Holland starrer crashes on third Friday, amid Emraan Hashmi-starrer ‘Awarapan 2’ takeover NALSAR students stand firm on demand against CJI as chief guest 5 killed, 1 critically injured, suspected gunman found dead after manhunt Jawaharlal Nehru (L) heads Tele-MANAS Centre of Telangana, CLN Gandhi retired from transport dept as addl commissioner In classrooms of generations past, an attendance register could sometimes sound like a roll call from India’s freedom movement. Many parents named their children after national heroes. Today, those names are hard to find. But you can still come across a Gandhi, Nehru or Bose.Take Hyderabad’s Jawaharlal Nehru. Born in the 1960s to freedom fighter and Congress member Mutteswara Rao, Nehru says his father was determined on the name of India’s first PM. Rao reached out to him.The PMO pointed out Nehru was a surname and suggested the child be named Jawahar. But Rao was adamant.”Being Jawaharlal Nehru, I feel, needs commitment,” he says. He encouraged his only son to join the Army. “I stand for the country. I can proudly say my son is a Major.”‘Names bring history into an ordinary life’ My father insisted he had a letter from Nehru giving his permission. That’s how I became Jawaharlal Nehru,” says the man who now heads Telangana govt’s Tele-MANAS Centre. Nehru’s sister, Vijayalakshmi Pandit, also has a modern-day namesake in Hyderabad. She was originally named Vijayalakshmi by her mother. Her father, a freedom fighter, later added Pandit to her name after the original became president of United Nations General Assembly.For Subhas Chandra Bose, a 33-year-old employee of Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, the name came with expectations from childhood. “Everyone told me I should not do anything mediocre or bad because of my name,” he says. “I still feel that responsibility. I don’t even lie.” His father didn’t stop with one famous name. Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesSubhas’ brothers are named Chandrasekhar Azad and Ambedkar.There’s also CLN Gandhi, a retired additional commissioner in the transport department, known simply as Gandhi in bureaucratic circles. “My father named me after Mahatma Gandhi as suggested by our neighbour, who was in the Army,” he says. “I was always conscious of the values associated with my name.”Socio-political analyst S Ramakrishna said: “When a child is named after a historical figure, that memory travels with the person. The name brings history into an ordinary life.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorSribala VadlapatlaSribala Vadlapatla is a Senior Assistant Editor with 15 years of experience at The Times of India and 30 years overall in mainstream and web journalism. She covers Telangana’s political, economic, health, technological, and socio-cultural topics, and is deeply interested in policy, governance, emerging technologies, international affairs, economy and music.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos79 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 Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom 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 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot 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 ‘Thudakkam’ box office collection day 8: Vismaya Mohanlal film records 30.6% growth; India net reaches Rs 1.11 Cr 75+ Happy Independence Day messages, greetings, wishes, and quotes for 2026 Bangladesh 378/8 in 120.0 Overs Rishabh Pant can make Virender Sehwag-like impact: Angelo Mathews ‘Batwara 1947’ box office collection Day 1: Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta’s partition drama lags behind Emraan Hashmi’s ‘Awarapan 2’; earns 5.75 crore in India “Both well-being and suffering happen from Within You. The choice is yours”; What the yogi advises on not choosing to depend our inner well-being on the outside world Pisces Horoscope Today, August 15, 2026: Married people should bring sweetness back through attention ‘Magudam’ box office collections day 1: Vishal’s directorial debut earns Rs 60 lakhs India net; records 15% overall occupancy A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran issued notice to Union govt through MeitY and law ministry NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Friday agreed to examine a plea seeking prosecution of social media and online platforms under the stringent Pocso Act for showing child sexual abuse content and not reporting it to police, reports AmitAnand Choudhary. A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran issued notice to the Union govt, through the ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) and the ministry of law and justice. It asked the petitioner NGO, ‘Just Rights for Children Alliance (JRCA)’, to implead intermediaries in the case to ensure compliance with the court’s 2024 judgment.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesSections 19 and 20 of Pocso Act make it mandatory for anyone who knows about a child sexual offence to report it to local police and the petitioner said the provision was also applicable to intermediaries and they too were liable to be prosecuted for non-compliance.JRCA, described as India’s largest civil society network with over 250 NGOs working against child sexual exploitation, child trafficking and child marriage, filed the application following a BBC report alleging that Instagram had carried paid advertisements promoting CSAM (Child Sexual Abuse Material).Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos79 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 Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom 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 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot 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 Sunidhi Chauhan’s Mumbai home: A look into the ‘Desi Girl’ singer’s cozy apartment with wooden accents Aquarius Horoscope Today, August 15, 2026: If you’re in a relationship don’t make a huge decision in one moment of intense emotion Rubio credited the personal relationship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the continued growth in bilateral ties US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday extended warm wishes to the people of India on the country’s 80th Independence Day, saying the relationship between New Delhi and Washington was growing stronger. Rubio credited the personal relationship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the continued growth in bilateral ties.”On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm congratulations to the people of India on their Independence Day. Thanks to the personal relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi, the U.S.-India relationship continues to grow and is stronger than ever. From defence and energy security to critical minerals, artificial intelligence, space cooperation, and commerce, our collaboration is making both of our nations, and the broader Indian Ocean region, safer, stronger, and more prosperous…”Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov also extended greetings to India, expressing confidence in the country’s continued development and reaffirming Moscow’s support for New Delhi.”Dear friends, Happy Independence Day! Looking at India’s predetermined path of development, there is no doubt that all your dreams will come true,” Alipov said in a post on X.”As you walk the path of progress, rest assured that Russia’s support remains the same today as it was a hundred years ago, and it will remain so tomorrow,” he added.Concluding his message, the Russian envoy said, “Jai Hind. Long live India-Russia friendship.”The messages came as Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort in Delhi, with this year’s ceremony marking 150 years of the National Song ‘Vande Mataram’ and focusing on the role of ‘Yuva Shakti’ in India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.For the first time, ‘Vande Mataram’ was rendered during the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. Modi hoisted the National Flag from the ramparts, with Captain Sonia Singh Chauhan assisting him. The flag hoisting was synchronised with a 21-gun salute by the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial), using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns.Following the Rashtriya Salute, the Army band played ‘Vande Mataram’, which was sung by those present at the Red Fort before the National Anthem. Two Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters also showered flower petals over the venue, with one carrying the National Flag and the other a flag depicting ‘Vande Mataram’.Modi subsequently addressed the nation, marking his 13th consecutive Independence Day speech from the Red Fort. Around 2,500 cadets from the Army, Navy and Air Force, along with ‘My Bharat’ volunteers, participated in the celebrations, forming the words ‘Vande Mataram’ along Gyanpath.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesAround 5,000 special guests from different walks of life were invited to the ceremony, including women entrepreneurs, sanitation workers, street vendors, youth innovators, scientists, farmers, students and start-up founders. More than 1,500 people from different states and Union Territories also attended in traditional attire.Across the country, patriotic band performances were held at 343 prominent locations, while flag-hoisting ceremonies were also organised by the Indian Navy and local administrations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.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 MediaVideos79 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 Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom 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 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot 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 ‘Awarapan 2’ box office collection Day 1: Emraan Hashmi starrer opens with Rs 27 crore haul; becomes actor’s biggest opener Capricorn Horoscope Today, August 15, 2026: Physical stamina is greater than the average, and your mental weight is less. Anti-Red fighters bag bulk of police gallantry awards The AMCA is being developed as a twin-engine, medium-weight stealth fighter for the Indian Air Force. NEW DELHI: In a boost to India’s fifth gen fighter programme, Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries Ltd and Rolls-Royce Friday announced they plan to jointly develop a sovereign indigenous combat engine for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).As part of the partnership to design, develop, manufacture and deliver the same, Reliance and Rolls-Royce will explore formation of a dedicated aerospace gas turbine complex that will be a centre for power and propulsion technology in India.The aero gas turbine complex will build sovereign, end-to-end Indian capability across design, development, manufacturing, testing, production and through-life support, while unlocking wider collaborations across defence, civil aerospace, and new power and propulsion systems.Aeronautical Development Agency under DRDO is officially designing and managing the AMCA project. As per initial planning, ADA is progressing with imported US GE F414 engines for the initial five AMCA prototypes under the Rs 15,000-crore programme. TNNGet the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos79 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 Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom 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 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot 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 New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s ‘common sense regulation’ may make ‘unhappy’ Amazon move its delivery operations outside the city Asking what was wrong if a govt provided succour to a deceased’s family, an SC bench agreed to hear an appeal filed by the state govt against the HC order NEW DELHI: Paving the way for Tamil Nadu govt to grant jobs to family members of those who died in the Karur stampede last year, SC Friday stayed operation of Madras HC’s verdict that had quashed the govt decision.Asking what was wrong if a govt provided succour to a deceased’s family, an SC bench agreed to hear an appeal filed by the state govt against the HC order.The court issued notice on the govt’s plea and stayed the HC order. HC had said if compassionate appointment was permitted in the present case, it would open the floodgates for various others to seek such employment.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos79 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 Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom 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 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot 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 Sagittarius Horoscope Today, August 15, 2026: Additional income from other sources is possible India play 600th Test at Galle: What happened in 1st, 100th, 200th, 300th, 400th and 500th Tests?