New Delhi

On the 76th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went old school in his customary address to the countrymen from the Red Fort where he used paper notes for his speech.

The teleprompter was sidelined by the PM as he began his speech by congratulating the countrymen on the completion of 75 years of independence which is being celebrated in the country under the banner of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.

PM Modi recalled the "architects of free India" who significantly contributed to India's freedom struggle.

"During our freedom struggle, there was not one year where our freedom fighters did not face brutality and cruelty. Today is the day when, as we pay them our respects, we need to remember their vision and dream for India," PM Modi said.

"Our country is grateful to Gandhiji, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Ramprasad Bismil, Rani Laxmi Bai, Subash Chandra Bose, and all other freedom fighters who shook the foundations of the British Empire. We salute not only those who fought for freedom but also the architects of free India such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Ram Manohar Lohia and Sardar Vallabhai Patel, amongst the many others," he said.

PM Modi also recalled the contributions of the women freedom fighters of India. "Every India is filled with pride when they remember the strength of the women of India, be it Rani Laxmibai, Jhalkari Bai, Chennamma or Begun Hazrat Maha," PM Modi said.

Ahead of his speech at the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the National Flag amid a 21-gun salute by the indigenously developed howitzer gun, ATAGS.

A multi-layered security cover along with Facial Recognition System cameras were installed at each entry and exit point at the fort.

Security personnel also deployed trained catchers to ensure that the premises remain monkey-free during the day.

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As many as 231 regular kite-flyers from the walled city area were roped in by the police to ensure a clear sky for about three hours in the morning.