India, Aug. 15 -- The skies above the Red Fort carried a powerful new symbol of India's resolve on Thursday as a helicopter flew past trailing the distinctive 'Operation Sindoor' flag, marking the first time the military operation's emblem was featured during Independence Day celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who unfurled the national flag for the 12th consecutive year, watched as two Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters passed over the ramparts - one showering flower petals with the tricolour fluttering proudly, the other carrying the Operation Sindoor flag. The aircraft were piloted by Wing Commanders Vinay Poonia and Aditya Jaiswal.

The gesture was a tribute to the success of Operation Sindoor, a swift and coordinated offensi...