"Once-in-a-Lifetime Honour": Panchayat Leaders Thank PM Modi for Red Fort Independence Day Invite
New Delhi, Aug 15 — Panchayat representatives from Maharashtra and Haryana expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after being invited as special guests to the 79th Independence Day celebrations at the iconic Red Fort.
Many of the grassroots leaders described the invitation as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity, saying they had never imagined witnessing the historic event in person.
Maharashtra Leaders Moved by PM’s Village-Focused Vision
Sandeep, sarpanch of Koregaon Bhima, Maharashtra, said he felt deeply encouraged by PM Modi’s focus on farming, education, and women’s empowerment.
“It felt really good to hear PM Modi speak about farming, schools, and women's empowerment. He also discussed the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, which gives significant financial support to women. The Prime Minister emphasised that if villages become self-reliant, the nation will develop — this is the essence of Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” Sandeep told IANS.
Anuprita Sachin Pandey, sarpanch of Akola, Maharashtra, called the moment a source of immense pride.
“Attending the programme at the Red Fort was a proud moment for us. We feel honoured that PM Modi recognised our work. His focus on women’s empowerment was inspiring,” she said.
Anjali, a former Gram Panchayat member from Koregaon Bhima, added:
“Seeing PM Modi live at the Red Fort was unforgettable. We never thought such an opportunity would come our way.”
Haryana Representatives Inspired by Direct Recognition
From Haryana, Jasmer Singh, Panchayat representative of Sultanpur village in Karnal district, recalled how the Prime Minister acknowledged the contributions of sarpanches across the country.
“I never expected I would meet PM Modi. Earlier, getting funds for development was difficult, but now our needs are being addressed,” he said.
Ratan Pal Singh Chauhan, sarpanch of Neerpur Rajput village in Mahendragarh district, described the event as a powerful motivator.
“It was an incredible feeling to be part of the celebrations. I felt proud and inspired. We were provided excellent facilities. Seeing the commitment of the cabinet ministers motivates me to work for building a ‘Naya Bharat’,” Chauhan said.
Strengthening Grassroots Leadership
This year’s Independence Day celebrations not only showcased national unity but also highlighted the growing role of Panchayati Raj leaders in India’s development journey. By extending invitations to sarpanches from different states, the government reinforced its message that true change begins at the village level.
PM Modi’s speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort stressed self-reliance, rural empowerment, and youth-led growth, aligning with flagship programmes aimed at strengthening local governance and economic independence.
Final Thoughts — TheTrendingPeople.com
Moments like these underline the importance of connecting the nation’s top leadership with grassroots representatives. For the invited sarpanches, the Independence Day ceremony wasn’t just about waving the Tricolour — it was about seeing their work acknowledged on the biggest national stage.
As India moves toward 2047’s centenary celebrations, empowering local leaders will remain essential to building the Aatmanirbhar Bharat PM Modi envisions.