Major Shweta Pandey an EME ( electronic and mechanical engineers ) officer from the Indian Army’s 505 base workshop will assist Prime Minister Modi unfurling the national flag during the 74th Independence Day function at the Red Fort. Many women officers have carried this role earlier. Women officers also led marching contigents during Republic Day parade.
Defence ministry said, the unfurling of flag will synchronise with a 21 salute fired by gunners of the 2233 Field Battery (ceremonial). The defence minister Rajnath Singh and defence secretary Ajay Kumar will receive the PM at 7.18 am in front of Lahore Gate of Red Fort. The defence secretary will introduce Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, to the PM. Mishra will conduct him to the saluting base where a combined inter-services and police guards will present salute to the PM who will then inspect the Guard of Honour. The Guard of Honour contingent for the PM will consist of one officer and 24 men each from the army, navy, air force and Delhi Police. After inspecting the Guard of Honour, the PM will proceed to the ramparts of the Red Fort where he will be greeted by Rajnath Singh and the top military brass. The GOC Delhi area will then conduct the PM to the dais on the rampant to unfurl the national flag. The PM will deliver his address to the nation after unfurling the flag.