On his 75th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district, delivering a powerful message about India's strength and resolve. He declared that India is no longer intimidated by nuclear threats and is prepared to enter enemy territory to strike.
Modi highlighted a recent instance where a Pakistani terrorist purportedly broke down, which he presented as evidence of India's firm stance against terrorism. He asserted that this reflects a "new India" that is fearless and capable of defending itself. He also reminded the public of Operation Sindoor, during which India destroyed terror bases in response to terrorists from Pakistan trying to harm Indian citizens.
The Prime Minister also spoke about the historic significance of the day, noting it was the day Hyderabad was liberated by the Indian Army. He lauded the "steel-like willpower" of Sardar Patel, drawing a parallel between the historical event and the present-day strength of the nation.
Furthermore, Modi emphasized the importance of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" or self-reliant India, urging citizens to prioritize buying Indian-made products. He appealed to traders to support this initiative, emphasizing that the path to India becoming a developed nation by 2047 lies through self-reliance. He encouraged citizens to buy local goods to support the nation.
In addition to his strong statements on national security, Modi launched the 'Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar' health initiative, appealing to women to participate actively. He emphasized that all tests and medicines provided under the initiative would be free, with the Ayushman Card assisting with further treatments.
The Prime Minister's birthday was marked by widespread celebrations and well wishes from various leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, who wished him a long life to lead the nation to greater progress, and opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. His younger brother, Prahlad Modi, also participated in celebratory events. However, some opposition voices and social media users have used the occasion to question whether Modi is too old to rule, referencing the BJP's unofficial retirement age of 75.
Modi's birthday also saw the launch of a "Seva Pakhwada" (service fortnight) by the BJP across the country. A book gallery dedicated to Modi's life and speeches was inaugurated at the Assembly Library in Delhi.