LOC18:47
15:47 GMT
NEW DELHI, Aug 15 (KUNA) -- The Republic of India on Tuesday celebrated its 71st Independence Day as millions of people took part in various programs organized across the country on the occasion.
The nation, especially the capital New Delhi, was put under tight security as the authorities deployed 70 thousand police personnel in the capital city, especially in and around the Red Fort from which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his independence message to the nation.
In his speech, the PM underlined that "security of the country is our priority. Internal security is our priority. Whether it is our oceans or borders, cyber world or space, for all kinds of security India is capable of defeating all such inimical forces," amid growing border tensions with China.
He also underlined that using force or abusive language will not help resolve Kashmir issue.
"The problem will be solved neither by abuse nor bullets - it will be solved by embracing all Kashmiris," he said. He also called upon the militants to join the mainstream amid separatist shut down in the Kashmir Valley.
Modi pledged in his speech from the Red Fort in old Delhi to build a new India by 2022 free from corruption and terrorism.
"We shall take strict steps against terrorism. There is no question of being soft on terrorism or terrorists. We have been asking the extremists to join the mainstream. Democracy provides an equal opportunity and rights to be heard for all. The process of engagement can take place only by their joining the mainstream," he further said.
On the occasion, major cities, government offices and departments, educational institutions and hospitals also took part in the celebrations.
In various state capitals including Hyderabad, Shimla, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Thiruvananthapuram, Gurugram, Gurdaspur and others, as well as chief ministers, government officials and employees took part in the Independence Day celebrations. (end)
atk.hm