Answer:

On the eve of independence, it was Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who delivered the historic speech known as the "Tryst with Destiny" speech. He delivered this speech on 14th August 1947, just a few minutes before midnight, which marked the official independence of India from British rule.

Background:
- India had been under British colonial rule for nearly 200 years, and the freedom struggle led by various leaders and organizations had intensified in the years leading up to independence.
- The Indian National Congress, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, played a crucial role in mobilizing the masses and demanding independence from the British.

The Tryst with Destiny Speech:
- The speech was delivered by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who later became the first Prime Minister of independent India.
- Nehru spoke to a gathered crowd of thousands at the Constituent Assembly in New Delhi.
- The speech was not only meant for the people present at the venue but was also broadcasted on the radio, reaching millions of Indians across the country.

Key Points from the Speech:
1. Historical Context:
- Nehru began by acknowledging the momentousness of the occasion, stating that it was a unique and significant moment in the history of India and the world.
2. Struggle for Freedom:
- He paid tribute to the countless freedom fighters who had sacrificed their lives and endured hardships in the struggle for independence.
3. Unity in Diversity:
- Nehru emphasized the importance of unity among the diverse communities and regions of India. He spoke about the need to overcome differences and work together for the progress of the nation.
4. Vision for the Future:
- The speech laid out Nehru's vision for an independent India, which included the eradication of poverty and inequality, the promotion of education and healthcare, and the building of a modern and industrialized nation.
5. Democratic Principles:
- Nehru emphasized the importance of democracy, stating that the new India would be based on democratic principles and ensure equal rights and opportunities for all its citizens.
6. International Relations:
- Nehru also touched upon India's stance on international relations, expressing the desire to maintain friendly relations with other nations and work towards global peace and cooperation.

Significance of the Speech:
- The "Tryst with Destiny" speech is considered one of the most iconic speeches in Indian history.
- It captured the aspirations and hopes of the Indian people as they embarked on a new journey of independence.
- Nehru's words resonated with the listeners and instilled a sense of pride and optimism in the hearts of the people.
- The speech is often quoted and referred to as a reminder of the ideals and values that India aspires to achieve.

In conclusion, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru delivered the "Tryst with Destiny" speech on the eve of India's independence, outlining the vision and aspirations of a newly independent nation. His words continue to inspire generations of Indians and serve as a reminder of the ideals that India strives to uphold.