<P> The members of the Assembly formally took the pledge of being in the service of the country . A group of women, representing the women of India, formally presented the national flag to the assembly . </P> <P> The Dominion of India became an independent country as official ceremonies took place in New Delhi . Nehru assumed office as the first prime minister, and the viceroy, Lord Mountbatten, continued as its first governor general . Gandhi's name was invoked by crowds celebrating the occasion; Gandhi himself however took no part in the official events . Instead, he marked the day with a 24 - hour fast, during which he spoke to a crowd in Calcutta, encouraging peace between Hindu and Muslim . </P> <P> Independence Day, one of the three National holidays in India (the other two being the Republic Day on 26 January and Mahatma Gandhi's birthday on 2 October), is observed in all Indian states and union territories . On the eve of Independence Day, the President of India delivers the "Address to the Nation". On 15 August, the prime minister hoists the Indian flag on the ramparts of the historical site Red Fort in Delhi . Twenty - one gun shots are fired in honour of the solemn occasion . In his speech, the prime minister highlights the past year's achievements, raises important issues and calls for further development . He pays tribute to the leaders of the Indian independence movement . The Indian national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana", is sung . The speech is followed by march past of divisions of the Indian Armed Forces and paramilitary forces . Parades and pageants showcase scenes from the independence struggle and India's diverse cultural traditions . Similar events take place in state capitals where the Chief Ministers of individual states unfurl the national flag, followed by parades and pageants . </P> <P> Flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programmes take place in governmental and non-governmental institutions throughout the country . Schools and colleges conduct flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural events . Major government buildings are often adorned with strings of lights . In Delhi and some other cities, kite flying adds to the occasion . National flags of different sizes are used abundantly to symbolise allegiance to the country . Citizens adorn their clothing, wristbands, cars, household accessories with replicas of the tri-colour . Over a period of time, the celebration has changed emphasis from nationalism to a broader celebration of all things India . </P>

Where is the flag hoisted on independence day