India: Numerous activities to celebrate 65 years of independence.

On August 15th, India held solemn ceremonies to commemorate the 65th anniversary of its declaration of independence from British colonial rule (August 15, 1947 – August 15, 2012).

In the capital city of New Delhi, the Indian flag flies over the Red Wall, where on this very day in 1947, India's first Prime Minister, Jawahar Lal Nehru, raised the tricolor flag (saffron, blue, and white) and read the Declaration of Independence.

Current Prime Minister Manmohan Singh raised the flag and delivered a speech to celebrate the nation's momentous holiday.

A view of the parade. (Source: zeenews.india.com).

The parade and cultural and artistic activities also took place in a grand and vibrant atmosphere around India Gate, in the heart of New Delhi, and many other places throughout the city.

In his speech, Prime Minister Singh stated that India's GDP growth in 2011 reached 6.5% and this year is expected to be even better. The Prime Minister emphasized that despite facing numerous challenges, India has achieved remarkable success in many areas over the past eight years.

However, the Prime Minister also acknowledged that political disagreements between parties on many issues are affecting the country's economic growth rate.

He emphasized that it was time to treat issues affecting the country's development as a matter of national security.

The Prime Minister warned that national security would be affected if economic growth did not increase, new investment sources were not attracted, and financial management and energy security were not improved.

To ensure security for Independence Day celebrations, armed and paramilitary security forces were deployed on the streets of New Delhi, particularly in the Red Fort area, around the Parliament building, the international airport, train stations, bus terminals, and the metro.

Approximately 40 security cameras have been installed in and around the Red Fort. The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs has also ordered states to strengthen security in sensitive areas to prevent terrorist attacks.

(VNA) - DT