PM Modi Highlights India's Nuclear Ambitions and Youth Initiatives on Independence Day

Significant Advances in Nuclear Power

New Delhi, Aug 15: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India has made a pivotal advancement towards self-sufficiency in the nuclear energy sector, with the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, achieving criticality earlier this year.

During his address from the Red Fort, where he unfurled the national flag, Modi emphasized the significance of nuclear energy as a cornerstone of the nation’s energy security and laid out an ambitious plan for the sector's expansion.

“Our goal is to reach 200 GW of nuclear energy, with the establishment of five new reactors,” he stated.

He also mentioned the passing of the SHANTI Act in Parliament, aiming for a nuclear power capacity of 100 GW by 2047.

“Energy security is essential today, and we have already initiated steps in this direction,” he remarked, noting that India's expertise in fast breeder nuclear technology represents a significant leap towards self-reliance in nuclear fuel.

Empowering the Youth

Modi directed his attention to the youth, announcing free online coaching for various competitive exams, specifically designed to alleviate the financial strain on underprivileged and middle-class families.

“We are aware of the substantial amounts these families spend. Our aim is to relieve them of that burden by offering free online coaching for competitive exams,” he explained.

Additionally, he introduced a program to provide AI skills training to 1 crore young Indians.

Preparing for the Future

As India gears up to host the 2036 Olympic Games, Modi announced a nationwide talent search to discover promising athletes and offer them specialized training in preparation for the event.

He also encouraged young individuals to actively engage in the upcoming Census 2027, assisting their families in providing accurate information through the self-enumeration process.

“The Census is being conducted nationwide. Collecting and counting data is crucial, as this information shapes policies and plans for the country's progress,” he stated.

Economic and Infrastructure Growth

Highlighting the nation’s industrial and infrastructure advancements, Modi noted that defense production has quadrupled over the last 12 years, while electronics manufacturing has increased sevenfold, railway coach production has surged 21-fold, and mobile phone production has expanded 33-fold.

“India has established itself in the digital and innovation landscape. We have also expedited the provision of essential services,” he added.

According to Modi, tap water connections are being provided 15 times faster, gas connections six times faster, toilets for the underprivileged four times faster, and housing for the poor three times faster than before.

Support for Farmers

He also addressed measures taken to ensure the availability of urea and DAP fertilizers at reasonable prices for farmers, despite rising global prices due to geopolitical tensions.

“We never anticipated this issue (the West Asia crisis). However, during this challenging time, our efforts have alleviated the burden. Today, gas, petrol, and urea are accessible in our country,” Modi remarked.

He emphasized that the government is covering a significant portion of fertilizer costs to protect farmers from global price fluctuations.

“Urea is available to farmers for just Rs 300 per sack, even though we acquire it from the global market at Rs 3,000. Furthermore, the market price of DAP globally has reached Rs 5,000. Yet, to ensure that our farmers do not suffer, we continue to provide DAP at Rs 1,350,” he added.

Conclusion

In summary, Modi’s Independence Day speech underscored the importance of enhancing India’s self-reliance across critical sectors, including nuclear energy, defense, manufacturing, and technology, while placing a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, affordable education, and farmer support.