Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the 79th Independence Day from the Red Fort in Delhi, delivering a wide-ranging speech that touched upon key aspects of India's development and future. This was his 12th consecutive Independence Day address and the second since being re-elected for a third term. Clocking in at 103 minutes, it was the longest Independence Day speech ever delivered by an Indian Prime Minister.

A significant portion of PM Modi's speech focused on the welfare of India's farmers, fishermen, and cattle rearers. Amidst ongoing trade tensions with the United States, where India has been reluctant to open its agricultural and dairy sectors, Modi asserted his unwavering commitment to protecting the interests of Indian farmers. He declared that he would "stand like a wall" against any policies that threaten their livelihoods, emphasizing that India would never compromise when it comes to safeguarding their interests. Modi highlighted the crucial role of farmers in making India self-sufficient in food production, reiterating that their prosperity is paramount. He also called for developing indigenous fertilizers to further promote self-reliance.

In his address, the Prime Minister addressed the critical issue of water conservation, which has been a recurring theme in his Independence Day speeches. Recognizing the importance of water security, he likely outlined the steps taken by the government to promote water conservation and efficient water management practices.

PM Modi voiced serious concerns about attempts to alter India's demography through illegal infiltration. He warned of a "well-thought-out conspiracy" to change the country's demographic composition, with infiltrators allegedly snatching the livelihoods of Indian youth, targeting women, and grabbing land from tribal communities. Asserting that this would not be tolerated, he announced the establishment of a "high-powered demographic mission" to tackle the problem. Modi emphasized that no country can allow infiltrators to enter its territory and that India has a duty to protect its citizens and its land.

Furthermore, Modi touched upon a range of other important issues:

• Economic Reforms: PM Modi announced next-generation Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms aimed at boosting economic growth and reducing the tax burden.
• National Security: He launched the 'Sudarshan Chakra' mission, inspired by Lord Krishna's Sudarshan Chakra, to strengthen and modernize India's security framework by 2035. He also declared that India would not tolerate nuclear threats and would not be blackmailed.
• Self-Reliance: Modi emphasized the importance of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India), urging the country to manufacture everything from fertilizers to jet engines and EV batteries. He stressed that self-reliance is not just about exports and imports but about India's capabilities and strength to stand on its own. He also highlighted the National Critical Minerals Mission and exploration activities to secure key minerals.
• Youth Empowerment: PM Modi unveiled a massive Rs 1 lakh crore scheme to empower India's youth, providing direct financial support to promote entrepreneurship, skill development, and self-reliance.
• Technological Advancement: Modi said that India will soon have its first made-in-India semiconductor chips in the market by the end of this year.
• Operation Sindoor: PM Modi hailed the success of Operation Sindoor, a military operation carried out in response to a terror attack, and lauded the armed forces for their bravery and effectiveness. He stated that forces were given full operational freedom after the April 22 attack to decide on planning, target and timing.
• Emergency: Modi reminded the nation of the Emergency period and said that no generation should forget how democracy was murdered.
• Indus Waters Treaty: Modi stated that India has decided that blood and water cannot flow together.

PM Modi's Independence Day speech served as a comprehensive roadmap for India's future, highlighting the government's priorities and vision for a strong, prosperous, and self-reliant nation.