On August 15, 2025, New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) Chairperson Keshav Chandra hoisted the national flag at Palika Kendra, the civic body’s headquarters, to mark India’s 79th Independence Day. The ceremony, attended by Vice-Chairman Kuljeet Singh Chahal, Council Member Anil Valmiki, Secretary Tariq Thomas, senior officials, school students, and teachers, featured a guard of honour by security and fire personnel, adding solemnity to the occasion.

In his address, Chandra paid heartfelt tribute to the nation’s freedom fighters and armed forces, specifically honoring teenage martyr Kanaklata Barua, who sacrificed her life at 17 during the Quit India Movement, and the bravery showcased in ‘Operation Sindoor,’ a recent defense success highlighting India’s self-reliance. “Freedom grants us rights but also reminds us of our duties,” Chandra said. “Our freedom fighters envisioned an educated, self-reliant, clean, just, and prosperous India. It is our collective responsibility to realize their dream.”

Chandra called on NDMC officers, employees, students, and citizens to unite in making the council a model civic body and contribute to building a world-class capital. To celebrate the day, NDMC adorned key landmarks, including Palika Kendra, NDCC Convention Centre, Connaught Place, Chandralok Building, and Lok Nayak Bhawan, with 37,500 tricolour bulbs. Additionally, 2,600 national flags were displayed on electric poles along major roads, and 36 floral boards and fountains bearing Independence Day greetings were installed across the NDMC area, reflecting the civic body’s commitment to national pride and civic excellence.

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