After 75 years, heard sound of Made-in-India weapon in Independence Day gun salute: PM Modi at Red Fort

New Delhi, Aug 15: On the occasion of India's 76th Independence Day, an indigenous howitzer gun was used for the first time as part of the 21-gun salute at Red Fort. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, said he is "proud" of the Made In India developed howitzer gun.

 

 

Developed by the DRDO, the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) will be used alongside the traditional British-origin ’25 Pounders’ artillery guns. The DRDO began the ATAGS project in 2013 to replace older guns in service in the Indian Army with a modern 155-millimeter artillery gun.

 

 

Howitzers is an umbrella term for a category of long-range artillery guns. Some practice firing sessions of the ATAGS have already been held in the run-up to the Independence Day celebrations. Officials said that including the ATAGS in the symbolic activity of the 21-gun salute is a crucial step in the journey and is significant towards its induction into the Army.

 

 

In his address, PM Narendra Modi called upon the collective spirit of 130 crores, the “Team India”, to take the country forward and ensure that it is a developed nation in the next 25 years. PM Modi laid down five resolves, or the “panch pran” for the ‘amrit kaal’: To work towards a ‘viksit Bharat‘ (developed India), remove any vestiges of colonialism, retain our roots, ensure unity in diversity, and carry out a citizen’s duties. He highlighted that corruption and dynastic politics were the two biggest challenges in India.

 

The Prime Minister said that COVID-19 pandemic has been an example of this common consciousness, where citizens came together. "From supporting doctors to propelling research to taking vaccines to the remotest parts, we have stood together," he said.

 

The Prime Minister said that the world today looks at India with pride, hope and as a problem solver. "The world looks at India as a destination where aspirations are met. My understanding of the spirit of India, made me realise that for growth of NewIndia we needed to ensure inclusive development across the nation- a vision that was held dear by Mahatma Gandhi," he said.

 

 

From the ramparts of the Red Fort, the Prime Minister said that Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikaas, Sabka Vishwaas and Sabka Prayaas became the cornerstone of ensuring implementation of pro-nation policies and taking development to the last mile.

 

"When there is stability in governance, fast decision making, spirit of Jan Bhagidari prevails for nation's development. As we celebrate 75 years, we need to now move with a renewed focus and resolve for the next 25 years, and this can be made possible through the strength and determination of 130 crore Indians," 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, 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. This was followed by a shower of flower petals from helicopters. Earlier in the day, PM Modi visited Rajghat to pay his respects to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation.