On the 79th Independence Day, PM Modi delivered his longest and most decisive address from the Red Fort, lasting 103 minutes. It focused on self-reliance, innovation, and citizen empowerment with a vision towards a globally confident, technologically advanced, and economically resilient country.
Key Highlights and Announcements
No Blackmail, No Compromise
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- PM Modi hailed Operation Sindoor, with use of Made-in-India weapons to dismantle terror networks.
- On the issue of the Indus Waters Treaty, he made it unequivocally clear: “India has now decided, blood and water will not flow together. This affirmed that India will no longer compromise on its national interests.
Atmanirbhar Bharat, Strengthening Technology, Industry
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- PM Modi said, “Dependence on others raises questions about a nation’s independence” and India must remain aware and committed to becoming self-reliant.
- He announced that India will roll out its first Made-in-India semiconductor chip by 2025 and is opening the nuclear sector to private players, creating unprecedented opportunities in energy and technology.
- PM Modi also highlighted India’s bold steps to secure resources critical for its future.
Mission Sudarshan Chakra, Enhancing Strategic Defence
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- PM Modi launched Mission Sudarshan Chakra, drawing inspiration from India’s rich cultural and mythological heritage to strengthen India’s offensive and deterrent capabilities.
- He also highlighted that all public places will be covered by an expanded nationwide security shield by 2035, ensuring comprehensive protection for the nation while showcasing India’s commitment to self-reliant defence.
Next-generation Reforms
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- He announced the formation of a Task Force for Next-Generation Economic Reforms, aimed at overhauling laws, rules, and procedures that govern economic activity.
- Next-Generation GST reforms by Diwali will reduce taxes on daily essentials, benefiting MSMEs, local vendors, and consumers.
PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, Empowering Youth
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- To strengthen India’s demographic dividend and ensure that the nation’s youth play a central role in its growth, PM Modi launched the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, a ₹1 lakh crore employment scheme under which newly employed youth will receive ₹15,000, targeting 3 crore young Indians.
Energy and Nuclear Self-Reliance
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- Through the National Critical Minerals Mission, the country is exploring 1,200 sites to ensure access to minerals essential for energy, industry, and defence.
- Complementing this, the National Deepwater Exploration Mission will harness India’s offshore energy resources, reducing dependence on foreign fuel imports and boosting energy self-reliance, marking another step toward a fully independent and powerful India.
- India plans to increase India’s nuclear power generation capacity tenfold by 2047, with 10 new nuclear reactors underway, ensuring energy security and sustainable growth.
Space Sector Independence, Pioneering Innovation
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- Preparations for India’s own space station are underway, building on the success of the Gaganyaan mission.
- Over 300 startups are now innovating in satellite technology, space exploration, and cutting-edge research.
Farmers, Backbone of India’s Prosperity
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- Agriculture remains a cornerstone of India’s development, with India ranked No. 1 in milk, pulses, and jute, and No. 2 in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables. Agricultural exports have crossed ₹4 lakh crore, reflecting the nation’s global competitiveness.
- He launched the PM Dhanya Dhanya Krishi Yojana for 100 backward farming districts, complementing ongoing support through PM-Kisan, irrigation schemes, and livestock protection programs, ensuring that India’s backbone of prosperity remains strong and resilient.
High-Powered Demography Mission, Safeguarding National Integrity
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- He addressed the importance of safeguarding India’s demographic integrity. He warned of challenges posed by illegal infiltration, stressing the need to protect border areas and citizens’ livelihoods.
- To address these concerns, he announced the High-Powered Demography Mission, aimed at ensuring India’s unity, integrity, and security, tackling both strategic and social challenges.
