On the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful and far-reaching address from the Red Fort, lasting 103 minutes—his longest yet. Outlining a bold roadmap for a Viksit Bharat by 2047, he emphasized the themes of self-reliance, innovation, and citizen empowerment. PM Modi reflected on India’s journey from dependency to global confidence, setting the tone for the nation’s centenary year of independence.
PM Modi began by highlighting the success of Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Conducted entirely with Made-in-India weapons, the operation dismantled cross-border terror infrastructure, sending a clear message that India will not succumb to nuclear blackmail or threats. In a strong statement on the Indus Waters Treaty, he declared, “Blood and water will not flow together,” criticizing the decades-old arrangement as unjust to Indian farmers. This marks a new era in India’s defence policy—one rooted in strategic autonomy and zero compromise.
Atmanirbhar Bharat: Building Technological and Industrial Strength
Emphasizing that self-reliance is the foundation of true independence, PM Modi outlined several transformative initiatives under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission. These include the rollout of India’s first indigenous semiconductor chip by 2025, opening the nuclear energy sector to private participation, and encouraging local production of jet engines, fertilizers, and digital platforms. The Prime Minister called upon the youth to become innovators and creators, shaping a future where India is self-sufficient and globally competitive.
Securing Resources for Strategic and Energy Independence
PM Modi spotlighted efforts to secure vital resources through the National Critical Minerals Mission, which is exploring 1,200 sites for minerals essential to defence, energy, and industry. Complementing this is the National Deepwater Exploration Mission, aimed at tapping offshore energy reserves to reduce foreign fuel dependency. These missions collectively enhance India’s energy security and industrial autonomy, moving the nation closer to full independence in critical sectors.
Pharmaceutical Innovation: India as the Global Health Hub
Highlighting India’s role as the “Pharmacy of the World,” PM Modi called for complete self-reliance in healthcare innovation. Referencing India’s leadership during the COVID-19 crisis, including the success of CoWIN and indigenous vaccines, he urged researchers and entrepreneurs to secure patents for new medicines and technologies. The vision is to transform India into a global hub for affordable, high-quality medical solutions, meeting both domestic and global healthcare needs.
Mission Sudarshan Chakra: A Leap in Defence Preparedness
In a significant defence initiative, PM Modi launched Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a modern weapon system inspired by India’s mythological heritage. Designed to provide swift and precise responses to threats, the mission reinforces India’s deterrence capabilities. He also announced plans to implement a nationwide security shield for all public places by 2035, cementing India’s path toward a secure and self-reliant defence infrastructure.
Next-Generation Reforms: Simplifying Governance and Driving Growth
PM Modi announced the formation of a Task Force for Next-Generation Economic Reforms, aiming to revamp outdated regulations and streamline economic governance. Over 40,000 compliances and 1,500 laws have already been scrapped, and 280 more provisions were removed in the recent parliamentary session. Looking ahead, GST reforms by Diwali are expected to lower taxes on essential items, benefiting MSMEs, small traders, and consumers while spurring economic growth.
Youth Empowerment: PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana
To harness India’s demographic dividend, PM Modi launched the ₹1 lakh crore PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, offering a ₹15,000 incentive for every newly employed youth. The scheme aims to benefit 3 crore young Indians, transforming them into active participants in nation-building. This initiative bridges the gap between Swatantra Bharat and Samriddha Bharat, positioning youth as the drivers of India’s future prosperity.
Clean and Nuclear Energy: Achieving Energy Sovereignty
PM Modi proudly announced that India had achieved its 50% clean energy target five years ahead of the 2030 goal. He unveiled plans to increase nuclear power capacity tenfold by 2047, with 10 new reactors under development. Emphasizing the economic impact of energy independence, he noted that reducing imports could free up funds for farmer welfare and national development. These steps reinforce India’s path to sustainable, sovereign energy security.
Space Sector: Leadership Through Innovation
India’s space ambitions were a major highlight, with PM Modi confirming that preparations for the country’s first space station are underway, following the success of Gaganyaan. Over 300 startups are now innovating in satellite systems and deep space exploration. This signals India’s transformation from a space participant to a global leader in space science and indigenous innovation.
Agriculture and Farmers: Strengthening the Nation’s Backbone
Reiterating his unwavering support for farmers, PM Modi launched the PM Dhanya Dhanya Krishi Yojana targeting 100 backward farming districts. He reaffirmed continued support through PM-Kisan, irrigation projects, and livestock protection. India’s global agricultural position has grown stronger, ranking #1 in milk, pulses, and jute, and #2 in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables. With exports crossing ₹4 lakh crore, agriculture remains a pillar of national growth.
Demographic Integrity: Launch of High-Powered Demography Mission
Addressing concerns around illegal infiltration and its impact on livelihoods, PM Modi announced the High-Powered Demography Mission. The initiative aims to safeguard India’s unity, strategic security, and demographic balance. By focusing on both social and strategic challenges, this mission reinforces the importance of maintaining national integrity.
Concluding his address, PM Modi reaffirmed that the strength of India lies in its people and their innovative spirit. He urged every citizen to contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047—whether by choosing Indian-made products, driving innovation, or building new enterprises. His message was clear: a self-reliant, empowered, and united India is within reach, and every Indian has a role to play in making it a reality by the nation’s centenary year of independence.
