On the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort, delivering a powerful message urging citizens to dedicate themselves to building a 'Samriddha Bharat' (Prosperous India) through self-reliance. Modi emphasized that now is the opportune moment for India to assert its capabilities and strive for economic prosperity amidst a world increasingly driven by "economic selfishness".
In his address, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of 'aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) across various sectors, including manufacturing, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence (AI). He stressed that self-reliance is not merely limited to trade and currency but is intrinsically linked to national capabilities. Modi highlighted the need to preserve, sustain, and boost these capabilities to ensure sustained national growth and security.
To drive home his message, Modi used evocative verse, emphasizing the significance of hard work and determination in shaping the nation's destiny. He stated, "Parishram main jo tapa hai, usne hi itihaas racha hai" (The one who has worked hard is the one who has created history). He further added, "Jisne fauladi chhattano ko toda hai, usne hi samay ko moda hai" (The one who has broken steel rocks, is the one who has bent the time). Modi wrapped up this segment of his speech with the powerful words, "Samay ko mod dene ka bhi, yahi samay hai, sahi samay hai" (This is the time to bend the time, this is the time, this is the right time).
The Prime Minister also highlighted the defense sector's advancements through indigenous efforts, referencing a recent military operation showcasing 'Made-in-India' technology. He posed the question of whether "Operation Sindoor" could have been executed so swiftly without self-reliance. Modi announced that by 2035, the nation aims to expand, strengthen, and modernize its security framework, drawing inspiration from Lord Shri Krishna's Sudarshan Chakra. This involves developing a homegrown defense system, named Mission Sudarshan Chakra, to safeguard critical sites, including civilian areas.
In his speech, Modi also touched upon the issue of demographic imbalance due to infiltration and illegal migration in border areas. To address this national security challenge, he announced the launch of a high-powered demography mission to ensure the unity, integrity, and rights of India's citizens are safeguarded.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister revealed upcoming "next-generation GST reforms" to be unveiled on Diwali, which will reduce taxes on essential goods and provide relief to MSMEs, local vendors, and consumers. He also announced the creation of a dedicated Reform Task Force to drive next-generation reforms to accelerate economic growth, cut red-tapism, modernize governance, and prepare India for the demands of a USD 10 trillion economy by 2047.
Modi also announced the launch of the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, which aims to create 3.5 crore jobs over the next two years. Under this scheme, newly employed youngsters will receive ₹15,000 per month as financial support. The initiative is expected to benefit around three crore young Indians.
In addition to these announcements, the Prime Minister addressed the challenge of obesity, which he said is emerging as a major concern for the country. He warned that experts predict one in every three people will suffer from obesity in the coming years and reiterated his suggestion to buy 10 per cent less oil for cooking.
The Prime Minister's address served as a call to action for every Indian to contribute to the vision of a 'Samriddha Bharat'. By embracing self-reliance, promoting local industries, and focusing on innovation and development, India can achieve its full potential and secure a prosperous future for generations to come.
