Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surpassed his predecessor, Manmohan Singh, by hoisting the national flag for the 11th time from the Red Fort. This puts Modi at the third spot for the most number of times the tricolour has been hoisted by a prime minister, behind Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. Only two prime ministers, Gulzarilal Nanda and Chandra Shekhar, did not get a chance to hoist the flag during their brief terms in office.
Narendra Modi Surpasses Manmohan Singh in Hoisting Tricolour at Red Fort
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a milestone by hoisting the national flag from the iconic Red Fort for the 11th time. This record-breaking achievement makes him the third Prime Minister to hoist the tricolour most times after Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.
Background:
The tradition of the Prime Minister unfurling the Indian flag at the Red Fort on Independence Day began with India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Nehru hoisted the flag for 17 consecutive years, from 1947 to 1964. Indira Gandhi, who was also Prime Minister for multiple terms, hoisted the flag for 14 times.
Modi's Record:
Narendra Modi has now surpassed his predecessor, Manmohan Singh, who hoisted the flag for 10 times. Modi first unfurled the tricolour from the Red Fort in 2014, the year he took office. He has continued this tradition for every subsequent Independence Day.
Significance:
The hoisting of the national flag at the Red Fort is a symbolic and powerful act that represents India's unity, sovereignty, and independence. It is a moment of national pride and celebration for all Indians.
Current Status:
With 11 successful flag hoistings, Modi is now third on the list of Prime Ministers with the most number of flag hoistings. He trails only Jawaharlal Nehru (17 times) and Indira Gandhi (14 times).
Top 5 FAQs:
1. Why is the Prime Minister the one who hoists the flag at the Red Fort?
The Prime Minister is the Head of Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, making them the highest official in the country.
2. Is there any specific protocol or ceremony involved?
Yes, the flag hoisting ceremony includes the Prime Minister taking the salute from the armed forces, an address to the nation, and the singing of the national anthem.
3. What is the significance of the Red Fort in this context?
The Red Fort is a historical monument that was the seat of power for the Mughal emperors. It became a symbol of Indian independence when Nehru hoisted the flag there in 1947.
4. Why did Gulzarilal Nanda and Chandra Shekhar not hoist the flag?
Nanda was an interim Prime Minister for short periods, while Chandra Shekhar retired as Prime Minister before Independence Day.
5. What is the future of this tradition?
The tradition of the Prime Minister hoisting the flag at the Red Fort is likely to continue in the future, as it has become an integral part of India's Independence Day celebrations.
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