Narendra Modi becomes second PM to deliver 13th consecutive Independence Day speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation during the 8oth Independence Day celebrations, at Red Fort in New Delhi. (PTI image)

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday delivered his 13th consecutive Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, becoming the second prime minister after Jawaharlal Nehru to achieve the milestone.PM Modi has addressed the nation from the Red Fort every Independence Day since taking office in 2014. His latest address came on India’s 80th Independence Day.Also read: 80th Independence Day – A throwback at PM Modi’s signature Red Fort turbansNehru, India’s first prime minister, holds the record for the longest uninterrupted run of Independence Day addresses, having delivered 17 consecutive speeches from 1947 to 1963.PM Modi surpassed former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who delivered 11 consecutive Independence Day speeches between 1966 and 1976.PM Modi hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort before beginning his address, with the ceremony synchronised with a 21-gun salute by the ceremonial battery.