Live News Updates 12,00 PM IST / India Prime TV News Desk | August 15, 2026 India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day today with nationwide ceremonies, heightened security and a series of major political, judicial, administrative and international developments.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, while elaborate security arrangements were put in place across Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu has also approved 78 gallantry awards.

PM Modi Addresses the Nation from the Red Fort

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his Independence Day address from the historic Red Fort as India marked its 80th Independence Day.

The celebrations featured the official singing of “Vande Mataram”, adding a significant symbolic element to this year’s national ceremony.

Security was tightened across Delhi ahead of the event, with extensive arrangements around the Red Fort and other sensitive locations.

78 Gallantry Awards Approved

President Droupadi Murmu has approved 78 gallantry awards, recognising personnel for acts of courage and distinguished service.

The awards form part of the Independence Day honours and highlight the contribution of security and defence personnel who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in the line of duty.

Supreme Court Gives Relief to Rahul Gandhi in Savarkar Defamation Case

In a significant political and legal development, the Supreme Court has provided relief to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the Savarkar defamation case by quashing the proceedings.

The case had remained politically sensitive because of Rahul Gandhi’s remarks concerning freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar.

The development is likely to have political implications as the Congress and BJP continue to clash over historical figures and interpretations of India’s freedom movement.

MEA Advises Restraint Over Remarks Involving Modi and Meloni

The Ministry of External Affairs has called for dignity and restraint over comments concerning Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

The episode has attracted political and social-media attention, but the government’s response has emphasised the importance of maintaining diplomatic decorum.

Omar Abdullah Supports Suspension of Indus Waters Treaty

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has supported India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, keeping the issue firmly in the political spotlight.

The treaty has become a major point of discussion between India and Pakistan amid continuing tensions between the two countries.

Political Row Intensifies in Telangana

Political tensions have also increased in Telangana following remarks by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.

The statement has triggered reactions from political opponents and is expected to remain a major issue in the state’s political discourse.

Sukhbir Singh Badal Attack Case: Accused Sent to Police Remand

The accused in the attack on Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal has been sent to police custody for further investigation.

Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the attack and establish the accused’s motive and possible connections.

Bomb Threats Trigger Security Alert in Delhi

A security scare was reported after bomb threats were received by the Delhi High Court and Indira Gandhi International Airport.

The threats prompted security agencies to step up checks and security measures.

Such incidents are being treated seriously amid heightened security arrangements for Independence Day celebrations.

Six Arrested in Varanasi Tantrik Murder Case

Police in Varanasi have arrested six people in connection with a murder case reportedly involving a tantric ritual.

Investigators are examining the circumstances of the killing and the alleged role of those arrested.

The case has raised concerns about the misuse of superstition and occult practices in criminal activity.

Two Young Men Drown While Making Social Media Reels

A tragic incident occurred when two young men drowned in a dam while reportedly making social media reels.

The incident once again highlights the growing risks associated with attempting dangerous stunts or filming content near deep water bodies.

Authorities and safety experts have repeatedly warned people against entering restricted or dangerous areas merely to create social-media content.

CAG Finds 98% Shortfall in Green India Mission Targets

A Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report has reportedly found that up to 98% of the targets under the Green India Mission remained incomplete.

The findings raise questions about implementation, monitoring and the gap between environmental policy targets and ground-level execution.

For India, the issue is particularly important as the country continues to balance economic growth with climate and environmental commitments.

Government Removes 12-Minute-Per-Hour TV Advertising Cap

The Centre has removed the existing 12-minute-per-hour advertising cap for television channels.

The change could significantly affect the broadcasting industry by altering how television networks structure commercial programming and generate advertising revenue.

It may also influence the relationship between broadcasters, advertisers and viewers.

2027 Census: Aadhaar and Bank Details Under Consideration

Preparations for the 2027 Census are also attracting attention, with reports indicating that the government is considering collecting Aadhaar-related and banking information.

Such a move would have major implications for data governance and privacy, making the safeguards surrounding collection, storage and use of personal information particularly important.

Indonesia Hit by Powerful 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake

On the international front, Indonesia was hit by a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake, following which a tsunami alert was issued.

Authorities were monitoring coastal areas and assessing the possibility of further seismic activity and tsunami waves.

The development has triggered heightened vigilance across potentially affected areas.

India Considers Additional Diesel Supplies for Bangladesh

India is considering supplying additional diesel to Bangladesh as the neighbouring country faces energy-related challenges.

Energy cooperation between the two countries could become strategically important as Bangladesh attempts to manage fuel availability and broader energy security concerns.

Sikh Youth Warns About Illegal ‘Donkey Route’ to the US

A video featuring a Sikh youth travelling through the illegal “donkey route” from Mexico toward the United States has surfaced, carrying a warning about the dangers associated with irregular migration.

The so-called donkey route can expose migrants to serious risks, including exploitation, trafficking, detention, financial loss and dangerous journeys.

Why These Developments Matter

Today’s developments span almost every major area of public life — national security, politics, courts, environment, media regulation, data privacy, foreign policy and international disasters.

The Independence Day celebrations provide the national backdrop, but the wider news cycle reflects several deeper questions facing India: how effectively government programmes are implemented, how personal data is governed, how political disputes are handled and how India manages increasingly complex regional and global challenges.

India Prime TV will continue to track the day’s major developments with live updates, verified facts and analysis.