India celebrates 73rd independence day in grand style at Red Fort

Colombo (News 1st): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that a new chief of defence staff will be appointed soon. The Indian Prime Minister made this statement addressing the independence day celebration today (August 15). The 73rd Indian Independence day celebrations were held with much pomp and pageantry at the Red Fort in New Delhi. Speaking at the celebrations the Indian Premier said that a person will soon be appointed to the country's vacant post of chief of defence staff. He said that many foreign nations are highly interested in trading with India and that India can become a tourism hub of the world. The Prime Minister highlighted the fact that India is one state and has only one constitution. He added that through the revocation of article 370 that attributed a special status to the Jammu Kashmir region would create an environment conducive to combat corruption and safeguard the rights of the people. The Indian Prime Minister also conveyed his wishes to neighbouring Afghanistan who are celebrating their 100th independence day. Meanwhile, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan accused that plans are afoot to launch an attack on the Kashmir region. Foreign media reported that Indian authorities have taken steps to beef up security in the Kashmir region as intelligence reports point towards an imminent attack on the region by Pakistan.

Sri Lanka Celebrates Indian Independence day

A special celebration was held at the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka to mark the 73rd Independence day. The event was chaired by Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Tharanjith Singh. A band display and an array of Indian cultural events added colour to the event which was attended by a number of state officials.