Rohit Shishodia
In the wake of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, there would be fewer guests to applaud in response to flag hoisting by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi on the occasion of India's Independence Day on August 15, 2020.

This will be done to ensure physical distancing to mitigate the chances of transmission of deadly corona virus which has gripped the entire country and killed thousands and infected more than 2 million.

The iconic celebration, which usually has the presence of school children every year, will maintain the balance between the sanctity and dignity of the National function while factoring in precautions related to the pandemic scenario.

According to the Ministry of Defense, which will organize the program, members of the Guard of Honour have been under quarantine for considerations of safety. The guiding principle for seating has been “Do Gaz ki Doori” (or 6 feet between between any two guests seated during the event.

The ministry has informed that adequate medical booths at four locations, one near the Rampart, one in Madhavdas Park and two in 15 August Park have been set up to cater to any attendee who is detected having any symptoms related to Covid-19 during entry. Ambulances would also be stationed at these four locations.

Thermal screening at all entry points for the invitees has been planned. Thorough sanitization of the premises inside and outside the Red Fort is being carried out on a regular basis.

All invitees have been requested to wear masks. In addition, adequate number of suitable masks is being kept handy for distribution at various points of venue. Similarly, availability of hand sanitizers at pre-defined locations has been done. Display boards are placed discreetly to attract the attention of invitees

The ministry has pointed out that participation is only through invitation and members who do not have formal invites are requested to refrain from coming to the venue. About 4000 plus invites have been issued to officials, diplomats, members of public, media etc.

With an eye on safety, NCC Cadets have been invited to witness the event (instead of young school children) and they will be seated at Gyanpath.

In order to sensitize the invitees towards Covid related safety measures, specific advisory for following the Covid related guidelines has been issued along with each invitation card.