The High Commission of India in Sierra Leone has marked India’s 80th Independence Day with a ceremony in Freetown highlighting democracy, development, national security, culture and environmental protection.
The event, held on Saturday, 15 August 2026, at the High Commission on Wilkinson Road, brought together members of the Indian community, invited guests, friends of India, officials and children.
The ceremony began with the singing of India’s national song, Vande Mataram, followed by the hoisting of the national flag by the Charge d’Affaires a.i., Neeraj Kumar Saini.
Those attending then sang India’s national anthem.
Mr Saini later read the Independence Day address delivered by President Droupadi Murmu on the eve of the anniversary.
He described the occasion as an important moment for Indians at home and abroad and extended Independence Day greetings to members of the Indian community in Sierra Leone and other guests.
President highlights democracy and development
In her address, President Murmu described Independence Day as a national celebration of pride and unity and paid tribute to those who contributed to India’s freedom and development.
She said independence had given every Indian citizen the opportunity to help shape the country’s future.
According to the president, the meaning of freedom also lies in ensuring that people have access to opportunities, can achieve their ambitions and contribute to the country’s progress.
She recognised the work of students, teachers, scientists, engineers, healthcare workers, farmers, workers, athletes, craftspeople, artists, public officials, investors and social workers.
President Murmu also praised members of India’s Armed Forces, police and security services for their role in protecting the country.
She acknowledged members of the Indian diaspora and officials serving at diplomatic missions for promoting India’s interests and reputation abroad.
The president said India’s constitutional democracy remained based on public participation, equality, opportunity and respect for individual dignity.
She said people from ordinary backgrounds were increasingly making significant contributions across different sectors of society.
Poverty reduction and digital growth
President Murmu highlighted what she described as more than a decade of rapid and inclusive development.
She said government programmes had helped lift more than 250 million people out of poverty.
The president said the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana financial inclusion programme had connected nearly 590 million account holders to the banking system.
She also said the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana was providing annual healthcare coverage of up to 500,000 rupees to about 600 million people.
President Murmu pointed to support for farmers through initiatives including the Kisan Samman Nidhi and Kisan Credit Card schemes.
She said the programmes were benefiting people involved in crop production, dairy farming, poultry, fisheries and beekeeping.
The president also highlighted the growth of India’s digital economy, saying electronic payments had become common in rural communities, small shops and among street vendors.
She said more than half of the world’s real-time digital transactions were taking place in India.
According to President Murmu, technology was also helping improve transparency in the delivery of government welfare programmes.
She cited improvements in highways, railways, waterways and air transport as developments helping to create jobs, support businesses and attract investment.
Environment and national security
Environmental protection was another major theme of the president’s address.
President Murmu said future generations had an equal right to natural resources and called for stronger individual and collective efforts to protect the environment.
She said the responsibility of the present generation was to leave behind a healthier and richer natural world.
On national security, the president praised the courage and professionalism of India’s Armed Forces.
She said India remained committed to confronting terrorism and other threats to peace and security.
President Murmu also referred to progress in areas previously affected by Naxalism, saying development programmes were creating new opportunities for communities in those regions.
She also reflected on India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, including the international recognition of historical sites associated with the Maratha military tradition and Sarnath, where Buddha is believed to have delivered his first sermon.
The president also highlighted the legacy of social reformers Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule and their contributions to education, equality, social justice and women’s empowerment.
Cultural performances and awards
The Freetown ceremony also featured cultural performances by children and members of the Indian community.
Ashna Jobin of the Sierra Leone Malayalese Association performed a special rendition of Vande Mataram, while the local Boyzee Group performed Bollywood patriotic songs.
Mr Saini also presented certificates and prizes to participants in activities organised by the High Commission to commemorate Independence Day.
The activities included the Special Independence Day Edition of the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz, the Viksit Bharat 2047 Painting Competition, the India Through My Lens Photography Competition and the Madhubani Art Workshop.
Winners and other participants were recognised during the ceremony as part of events aimed at promoting greater knowledge of India’s history, culture and development.
