What Did PM Modi Say About India's Future on Independence Day?
A Vision for a Prosperous India
New Delhi: On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a passionate address advocating for a 'Samriddh Bharat' (Prosperous India), emphasizing the need for self-reliance in various sectors, including fighter jet engines, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. He highlighted the importance of rising above 'economic selfishness' in a world increasingly focused on individual interests.
During his longest Independence Day speech, lasting 103 minutes, Modi made several key announcements. These included the formation of a task force aimed at next-generation reforms, proposed GST reforms to stimulate economic growth, a national deep-water exploration initiative for energy independence, and plans for an indigenous 'Sudarshan Chakra' defense system by 2035.
From the historic Red Fort, he urged the nation to respond to crises with courage rather than despair, drawing on his extensive experience in governance to assert that India can avoid being ensnared by selfish interests if it chooses the right path.
His call for 'swadeshi' (Made in India) and innovation spanned multiple sectors, including semiconductors, social media, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals, coinciding with strained relations with the US, where President Donald Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods.
Modi refrained from directly addressing this trade issue but likened his vision of 'Samriddh Bharat' to the freedom fighters' aspiration for 'Swatantra Bharat' (Independent India).
He also introduced the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, which aims to generate 35 million jobs over the next two years. He emphasized that the sacrifices made for India's independence should inspire the current generation to strive for a prosperous nation.
Modi stated, 'This generation should dedicate itself to 'Samriddh Bharat.' It is essential to take new steps towards making India prosperous,' asserting that this vision transcends political affiliations and belongs to all citizens.
In a notable shift, Modi addressed the issue of infiltration, labeling it a threat to national unity and security. He announced a high-powered demographic mission to tackle this 'serious crisis.'
He warned that the country's demographics are being manipulated through a calculated conspiracy, stating that infiltrators are taking jobs from Indian youth and exploiting vulnerable communities. 'No nation can allow itself to be overtaken by infiltrators,' he declared.
As the Rashtriya Svayamsevak Sangh approaches its 100th anniversary, Modi praised its contributions to nation-building, highlighting its identity rooted in service, dedication, and discipline.
In response to criticism from the Congress regarding his government's commitment to constitutional values, Modi reaffirmed that the Constitution remains the guiding principle for the nation. He urged citizens to remember the historical injustices of the Emergency imposed in 1975.
While acknowledging the strides made in self-reliance across various sectors, including technology, he noted that India's semiconductor ambitions had long been stalled but are now set to become a reality.
Modi issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that terrorists and their supporters would face consequences, and emphasized that India would no longer tolerate nuclear threats.
He announced the development of an indigenous defense system designed to protect critical infrastructure and religious sites, inspired by Lord Krishna, which aims to neutralize threats and retaliate with greater force.