NSS Volunteers' participation and Best NSS Volunteer Award in the 79th
Independence Day Celebrations at Red Fort, Delhi
15th July 2025
50 NSS Volunteers of Dronacharya College of Engineering, Gurugram under the guidance Dr. Anupam Dalal (NSS Programme Officer) participated in the 79th Independence Day celebrations at the historic Red Fort, Delhi. The college’s NSS Unit was honored to contribute to the grand National event from August 1st to August 15th, 2025, as a part of the preparations for the "Naya Bharat" initiative. On August 11, 2025, Mr. Aryan Bhasin, a final-year student from the CSE –AIML Department was bestowed with the special recognition in a ceremony and was presented with a souvenir by Shri Sanjay Seth (Minister of State for Defense.) This prestigious honor was a result of his outstanding performance and commitment, recognizing him as the 'Best NSS Volunteer' and for his exceptional contributions on the 'My Bharat Portal.' His dedication and proactive approach to service have brought immense pride to the college and serve as an inspiration to his peers.
Approximately 5,000 special guests were invited to witness the grand ceremony including members of the Indian contingent for the Special Olympics 2025, International Sports winners, Khelo India Para Games Gold Medalists, and top-performing Farmers trained under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission.
The volunteers actively engaged in various preparatory activities leading up to the main event, contributing to the seamless organization and grandeur of the celebrations at the Red Fort. Their collective efforts were integral to the broader vision of a 'Naya Bharat,' emphasizing the pivotal role of youth in National Development.
The event, held from August 1st to August 15th, 2025, included training, participation in Independence Day celebrations, and interaction with NCC cadets from different parts of India.
The volunteers underwent a comprehensive training program during their stay at the Red Fort. The training covered various aspects of Indian history, culture, and traditions. They learned about the struggles for Independence, the sacrifices made by freedom fighters, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
The NSS and NCC cadets commenced their preparation for the Independence Day celebrations with regular practice sessions held at the Red Fort. The initial days were focused on familiarizing the participants with the event's sequence and honing their skills. The sessions were intensive, laying a solid foundation for the upcoming rehearsals and final performance.
As the event date approached, security measures were heightened. From 2nd - 9th participants received their security passes, ensuring a smooth and secure entry into the event venue. Additionally, bus arrangements were finalized, and refreshments were provided to the cadets, ensuring they were well-prepared and cared for during the practice sessions.
Uniforms were distributed to all participants on 12th August, ensuring that everyone was properly attired for the full dress rehearsal and the final event. The day also marked the final preparations, with a focus on ensuring that all logistical details were in place for the main event.
On 13th August, the full dress rehearsal took place at the Red Fort. The rehearsal was a critical run-through of the entire event, with all participants donning their uniforms and performing as they would on the actual day. The rehearsal allowed the organizers to fine-tune the event, ensuring that everything would run smoothly on Independence Day.
The atmosphere at the Red Fort was electrifying, charged with patriotic fervor. The volunteers felt an overwhelming sense of unity and pride as they witnessed the National Flag unfurling, accompanied by the National Anthem. The celebration was a vivid reminder of the country’s journey over the past 78 years and the remarkable progress it has made. The event also reinforced the importance of being active and responsible citizens, contributing positively to society.
Volunteers witnessed the Prime Minister's address to the nation, the unfurling of the national flag, and the vibrant cultural performances. Volunteers got chance to interact with honorable Prime Minister of India Sh. Narender Modi Ji. Volunteers also got chance to interact with NSS Director Smt . Vanita Pandey. She shared their valuable information about future opportunities for NSS volunteers in India as well as abroad.
The volunteers also had the chance to interact with other attendees, including students from different parts of the country. The interactions fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose, reinforcing the idea that, despite diverse backgrounds, all are united for the nation and committed towards its development.
On the morning of 15th August, participants arrived at the Red Fort at 4:30 AM. The cadets were seated in their designated areas. The event began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting Rajghat at 7:00 AM to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, after which he arrived at the Red Fort at 7:30 AM.
The Prime Minister first extended his greetings to the Army personnel and then entered the Red Fort through the Lahori Gate. The national flag was hoisted, followed by a 21-gun salute and a flower shower from the helicopters over the NSS and NCC cadets.
Honorable PM Modi addressed the nation from the rampant of the Red Fort and presented a vision for India@2047. Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the national flag and paid tribute to the freedom fighters who played a key role in the country’s Independence movement. Flying Officer Rashika Sharma assisted Prime Minister Narendra Modi in hoisting the national flag at the Red Fort. A total of 2,500 cadets from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with ‘My Bharat’ volunteers, participated in the event. They were seated along Gyanpath, forming the ‘Naya Bharat’ logo, which represented the central theme of the celebrations.
The Red Fort was decked out in patriotic colours for the celebrations, with floral arrangements in saffron, white and green lining the historic site. The tricolour-themed decorations added a vibrant touch to the venue and beautifully complemented the historic architecture, while a red carpet welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, adding to the grandeur and significance of the event. On India’s 79th Independence Day, his Red Fort speech — lasting a total of 103 minutes — underscored self-reliance, defence preparedness, and youth empowerment, signalling a forward-looking vision for India@2047. Flower petals were showered from two Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters, one carrying the national flag and the other displaying the ‘Operation Sindoor Flag.’
Following the speech, the Prime Minister met with the cadets, interacting with them closely and even shaking hands. He also mingled with the visitors and spectators present at the event before departing in his car. The event concluded shortly afterward, with media personnel interviewing the cadets, including Jatin Kartikeye and many others
Benefits/Outcome: NSS volunteers were honored with a visit to the historic Red Fort, a symbol of India's rich heritage and enduring struggle for freedom. The visit was more than just a commemoration of India's independence; it was an immersive experience that deepened the volunteers' understanding of the sacrifices and the legacy that have shaped the nation. For the NSS volunteers, this visit was an educational experience. It provided a unique platform for our students to contribute to a national cause and interact with the nation's highest dignitaries.