The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Nation on the 79th Independence Day from the ramparts of the Red Fort, Delhi today. The address to the nation by Shri Modi was the longest and most decisive address from the Red Fort, lasting 103 minutes, charting a bold roadmap for a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Prime Minister's address focussed on self-reliance, innovation, and citizen empowerment, highlighting India’s journey from a nation dependent on others to a globally confident, technologically advanced, and economically resilient country.

Shri Modi outlined the vision for a Viksit Bharat 2047, emphasizing that India’s progress is built on self-reliance, innovation, and citizen empowerment. He stated that across sectors ranging from strategic defence to semiconductors, clean energy to agriculture, and digital sovereignty to youth empowerment, the roadmap seeks to transform India into a $10 trillion economy by 2047, making it globally competitive, socially inclusive, and strategically autonomous.

Following are the highlights from the Prime Minister’s address.

1. General

• This grand festival of Independence is a celebration of the 140 crore resolutions of our people.
• India is continuously strengthening the spirit of unity.
• For 75 years, the Constitution of Bharat has been guiding us like a lighthouse.
• Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was the first great personality of the nation to sacrifice his life for the Constitution of Bharat.
• Nature is testing us all. In the past few days, we have faced many natural disasters—landslides, cloudbursts, and countless other calamities.
• Today serves as a great opportunity to salute the brave warriors of Operation Sindoor from the ramparts of the Red Fort.
• Bharat has now decided that we will no longer tolerate the nuclear threats which has been endured so long.
• If our enemies continue the acts of terrorism in the future, our army will decide on its own terms, at the time of its choosing, in the manner it deems fit, and target the objectives it selects and we will act accordingly. We will give a fitting and crushing response.
• India has now decided, blood and water will not flow together. The people have realized that the Indus Waters Treaty was unjust. Water from the Indus River system irrigated enemy lands while our farmers suffered.
• The Indus water treaty is unacceptable to us in the interest of our farmers, and in the interest of the nation.
• The bedrock of a Viksit Bharat is also a self-reliant Bharat.
• It is a great Misfortune when dependency becomes a habit and when we do not even realise and abandon self-reliance and become dependent on others.
• Self-reliance is linked to our capability, and when self-reliance begins to diminish, our capability too continually declines. Therefore, to preserve, maintain, and enhance our capability, it is imperative to be self-reliant.
• India is today creating a modern ecosystem in every sector and the modern ecosystem will make our country self-reliant in every field.
• “I call upon the youth of the nation to bring forward their innovative ideas. Today’s idea could shape the future of generations to come. I will stand shoulder to shoulder with you in this journey”, said Shri Modi.
• Drawing inspiration from India’s COVID-19 response, where indigenous vaccines and platforms like CoWin saved millions of lives globally, we must expand this spirit of innovation.
• Our scientists and youth should build our own jet engines taking it up as a direct challenge.
• Researchers and entrepreneurs must secure patents for new drugs and medical technologies, ensuring that India not only meets its own healthcare needs but also becomes a global hub of medical self-reliance and innovation, demonstrating the country’s ability to lead in science, technology, and human welfare.
• The National Manufacturing Mission is progressing at great speed.
• A large share of India’s budget still goes toward importing petrol, diesel, and gas. The National Deepwater Exploration Mission will be launched to harness India’s offshore energy resources, boosting energy self-reliance and reducing dependence on foreign fuel imports, marking another step toward a fully independent and powerful India.
• Citizens and shopkeepers should champion India-made goods under the “Vocal for Local” initiative.
• Swadeshi should stem from pride and strength, not compulsion.
• We must push for visible promotion, such as “Swadeshi” boards outside shops, to boost self-reliance, support entrepreneurship, and strengthen India’s economic and industrial base.
• India’s strength lies in its people, innovation, and commitment to self-reliance.
• Over the past decade, India has been reforming, performing, and transforming, but now the time has come to move forward with even greater strength.
• Our government is committed to creating a modern, efficient, and citizen-friendly ecosystem, where laws, regulations, and processes are simplified, entrepreneurship is encouraged, and every Indian can contribute to building a Viksit Bharat.
• A Task Force for Next-Generation Reforms will be formed, which will evaluate all current laws, rules, and procedures related to economic activities. The Task Force will work within a set timeline to:
  • Reduce compliance costs for startups, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs
  • Provide freedom from fear of arbitrary legal actions
  • Ensure laws are streamlined for ease of doing business
• These reforms are aimed at creating a supportive ecosystem for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
• We are working with a saturation approach to ensure social justice.
• Today, the government comes to your doorstep with a saturation approach. Crores of beneficiaries are receiving the benefits of government schemes, and Direct Benefit Transfer has been a truly revolutionary step.
• Today, over 25 crore poor people in the last 10 years — have overcome poverty and stepped out of it, creating a new “neo–middle class.”
• We are not concerned only with socially backward groups, we also want to give priority to backward regions though aspirational districts and blocks programmes.
• India will no longer compromise on its national interests, and the operation underscored the country’s ability to act swiftly and decisively, relying entirely on indigenous technology and defence platforms.
• Dependence on others raises questions about a nation’s independence. It is unfortunate when dependence becomes a habit, a dangerous one. That’s why we must remain aware and committed to becoming self-reliant. Self-reliance is not just about exports, imports, the rupee, or the dollar. It is about our capabilities, our strength to stand on our own.
• Reform is not just about economics, it is about transforming the everyday lives of citizens.
• The reforms undertaken by our Government signal a modern, citizen-centric government where ordinary people can experience ease, fairness, and empowerment.
• India is committed to structural, regulatory, policy, process, and procedural reforms, building a nation where governance works for the people, not the other way around.
• Instead of focusing on others’ limitations, India must extend its own line of progress.
• In a world of rising economic self-interest, the focus must be on strengthening India’s capabilities, expanding opportunities, and empowering citizens. These reforms mark the beginning of an accelerated phase of governance transformation, ensuring India is more resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive.
• Every Indian must contribute to nation-building, whether by buying India-made products or participating in scientific, technological, and entrepreneurial ventures to ensure a prosperous, powerful, and Viksit Bharat by the nation’s centenary of independence.
• To build a developed India, we will neither stop nor bow down, we will keep working hard and we will build a developed India before our eyes in 2047.
• We will not allow even a single particle of slavery to remain in our lives, in our systems, in our rules, laws and traditions. We will not rest until we are free from all forms of slavery.
• We will be proud of our heritage. The biggest ornament, the biggest jewel, the biggest crown jewel of our identity is our heritage, we will be proud of our heritage.
• Unity is the most powerful mantra among all these and hence it will be our collective resolve that no one should be able to break the thread of unity.

2. Ministry of Defence

• Operation Sindoor is a demonstration of India’s defence self-reliance and our strategic autonomy.
• The results of Our consistent mission over the past ten years towards self-reliance in the field of defence was shown in Op Sindoor.
• Using Made-in-India weapons, the operation dismantled terror networks and Pakistan-based infrastructure, signaling a new era where India will no longer accept nuclear blackmail or threats on foreign terms.
• The indigenous capabilities, including Made-in-India weapons, enable India to act decisively and independently, proving that national security cannot rely on foreign dependence.
• Indian innovators and youth should develop jet engines within India, ensuring that future defence technology is entirely home-grown and self-reliant.
• India draws inspiration from its rich cultural and mythological heritage to guide modern defence innovations. To strengthen India’s offensive and deterrent capabilities, we are launching “Mission Sudarshan Chakra”, aimed at neutralising enemy defence infiltrations and enhancing India’s offensive capabilities.
• Akin to the legendary Shri Krishna’s Sudarshan Chakra, this mission underscores India’s commitment to strategic autonomy, ensuring rapid, precise, and powerful responses to any threat.
• The initiative is designed to enhance rapid, precise, and powerful defence responses, reinforcing India’s strategic autonomy.
• All public places will be covered by an expanded nationwide security shield by 2035, ensuring comprehensive protection for the nation while showcasing India’s commitment to self-reliant defence.

3. Ministry of Finance

• Next-Generation GST reforms by Diwali will reduce taxes on daily essentials, benefiting MSMEs, local vendors, and consumers, while simultaneously stimulating economic growth and creating a more efficient, citizen-friendly economy.
• Income Tax Reform and Faceless Assessment were introduced making the tax system transparent and efficient.
• Exempting income up to Rs 12 lakh from income tax has brought great joy to my middle-class families, who are eager to contribute to nation-building.
• For the world to recognize our strength in manufacturing, we must constantly scale new heights in quality by adhering to Zero Defect, Zero Effect products.
• Every product of ours should have higher value, but cost less. It is with this spirit that we must move forward.
• Amidst global instability, India's fiscal discipline, the energy of India's finance, remains a ray of hope, with the entire world expressing confidence in the Indian economy.

4. Ministry of Home Affairs

• It is of prime importance to safeguard India’s demographic integrity.
• The imminent dangers of demographic imbalance due to infiltration and illegal migration in border areas is high, thereby affecting citizens’ livelihoods.
• A High-Powered Demography Mission will be launched aimed at ensuring India’s unity, integrity, and security, tackling both strategic and social challenges.
• Our tribal areas and youth were caught in the clutches of Maoism. Today, we have reduced that number from over 125 districts to merely 20.
• Regions once known as the “Red Corridor” are now becoming corridors of green development. This is a matter of pride for us.
• In those parts of Bharat's map once stained red with blood, we have now hoisted the tricolour of the Constitution, the rule of law, and development.

5. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare

• India’s farmers are the backbone of the nation’s journey from dependency to self-reliance.
• The colonial rule had left the country impoverished, but it was the tireless efforts of farmers that filled Bharat’s granaries and secured the nation’s food sovereignty.
• India will not compromise on its farmers’ interests.
• “I have stood as a wall for the farmers and livestock keepers against any detrimental policy, protecting their rights and livelihoods”, stated the PM.
• Last year, Indian Farmers broke all previous records in the production of grains.
• Agriculture remains a cornerstone of India’s development, with India No. 1 in milk, pulses, and jute, and No. 2 in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables.
• Agricultural exports have crossed ₹4 lakh crore, reflecting the nation’s global competitiveness.
• To further empower farmers, the PM Dhan- Dhanya Krishi Yojana was launched for 100 backward farming districts, complementing ongoing support through PM-Kisan, irrigation schemes, and livestock protection programs, ensuring that India’s backbone of prosperity remains strong and resilient.
• Government schemes such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, rainwater harvesting, irrigation projects, quality seed distribution, and timely fertilizer supply have together boosted farmers’ confidence across the country.

6. Ministry of Animal Husbandry

• In North India alone, around 125 crore free doses of vaccinations have been administered to cattle to prevent Foot and Mouth disease.

7. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology

• Attempts to set up semiconductor factories 50–60 years ago were “killed at birth” while other nations prospered, India is now on mission mode in semiconductor manufacturing.
• India will launch Made in India semiconductor chips by the end of 2025, reflecting the nation’s growing strength in critical technology sectors
• Innovation in AI, cyber security, deep-tech, and operating systems is necessary for global competitiveness.

8. Department of Space

• The whole of India rejoices in the remarkable achievements of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.
• India is preparing for Aatmanirbhar Bharat Gaganyaan, with ambitious plans for India’s very own space station, signalling a new era of indigenous space capabilities.
• Over 300 startups are actively innovating in satellites, exploration, and cutting-edge space technologies, ensuring that India is not just participating but leading globally in space science and exploration.

9. Department of Atomic Energy

• 10 new nuclear reactors are currently operational and by India’s 100th year of independence, the nation aims to increase its nuclear energy capacity tenfold, strengthening energy self-reliance and supporting sustainable growth.
• India is opening the nuclear sector to private players, creating unprecedented opportunities in energy and technology.
• If India were not dependent on energy imports, the money saved could be used for the welfare of farmers, further strengthening the backbone of the nation’s prosperity.

10. Ministry of Labour and Employment

• A major employment scheme - PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, worth ₹1 lakh crore will be launched. Under the scheme, newly employed youth will receive ₹15,000. The scheme aims to benefit 3 crore young Indians, strengthening the bridge from Swatantra Bharat to Samriddha Bharat.
• This initiative will transform India’s demographic potential into real economic and social prosperity, strengthening the bridge from Swatantra Bharat to Samriddha Bharat and empowering the youth to actively contribute to the nation’s progress and development.

11. Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises(MSME)

• Next-generation GST reforms will be unveiled on Diwali, reducing taxes on essential goods and providing relief to MSMEs, local vendors, and consumers.
• The government’s reforms aim to reduce compliance costs for startups, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs, while ensuring freedom from the fear of outdated legal provisions. This creates a more conducive environment for business growth, encouraging innovation and economic self-reliance.

12. Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers

• India should strengthen itself as the “pharmacy of the world”.
• There is an urgent need to invest more in research and development.
• “Shouldn’t we be the ones providing the best and most affordable medicines for the welfare of humanity?”
• India’s growing strength in domestic pharmaceutical innovation, emphasizing the need to develop new medicines, vaccines, and life-saving treatments entirely within India.
• Food security cannot be left vulnerable to imports.
• There is an urgent need for domestic production of fertilisers and key inputs, ensuring that Indian farmers are empowered and that Bharat’s agriculture thrives independently.
• We must find new ways to manufacture our own fertilizers as per the requirement of India, without depending on other countries.
• This is critical not only for farmers’ welfare but also for strengthening the nation’s economic sovereignty.

13. Ministry of Women & Child Development

• The women’s self-help groups have done wonders, with their products reaching global markets across the world.
• India’s daughters are dominating from startups to the space sector, from sports to the armed forces. They are proudly participating in the country's development journey by standing shoulder to shoulder.
• Namo Drone Didi has become a new identity for women.
• We pledge to make three crore women ‘Lakhpati Didis’.

14. Ministry of Law & Justice

• Over the past years, the government has undertaken a historic wave of reforms, abolishing over 40,000 unnecessary compliances and repealing more than 1,500 outdated laws.
• Dozens of other laws were simplified in Parliament, always keeping citizens’ interests at the forefront.
• In the recent session alone, over 280 provisions were removed, making governance simpler and more accessible for every Indian.
• We have abolished the penal code and brought in Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, embodying trust in the citizens of Bharat, a sense of belonging, and filled with sensitivity.

15. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

• Obesity is becoming a very grave crisis for our nation.
• Every family should resolve to use 10% less cooking oil to fight obesity.

16. Ministry of Tribal Affairs

• Today, after being freed from Maoism and Naxalism, Bastar’s youth participate in the Olympics.
• This year marks the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. By freeing these tribal areas from Naxalism and saving the lives of the youth of my tribal families, we have paid him a true tribute.

17. Ministry of Culture

• This year marks the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who sacrificed everything for the protection of our culture and values.
• The strength of our culture lies in our diversity.
• The success of the 'Maha Kumbh' is a resounding testament to Bharat's unity and strength.
• We have accorded classical language status to Marathi, Assamese, Bangla, Pali, and Prakrit.
• The more our languages develop, the more enriched they become, the stronger our entire knowledge system will grow.
• Under the Gyan Bharatam Mission, we are now working across the nation to locate handwritten texts, manuscripts, and centuries-old documents, and to use today’s technology to preserve their wealth of knowledge for future generations.
• I salute all the swayamsevaks who have contributed to this century-long journey of national service, and the nation takes pride in this grand and dedicated journey of 100 years of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which will continue to inspire us.

18. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

• Energy independence is of prime importance for the bright future of youth and for welfare of farmers and this will be done.
• With our resolve of Self-reliance in energy in the last 11 years, solar energy in India has seen a thirtyfold increase.
• With Mission Green Hydrogen, Bharat is today investing thousands of crores of rupees
• While the world debates global warming, India had resolved to achieve 50% clean energy by 2030 yet, thanks to the commitment of its people, that goal was met by 2025.
• Solar, nuclear, hydro, and hydrogen energy have been advanced, marking a decisive step towards energy independence.

19. Ministry of Power

• Be it solar panels or components required for electric vehicles, we should manufacture our own components.

20. Ministry of Mines

• To secure resources essential for energy, industry, and defence, India has launched the National Critical Minerals Mission, exploring 1,200 sites to ensure access to minerals essential for energy, industry, and defence.
• Controlling these minerals strengthens strategic autonomy, ensuring India’s industrial and defence sectors remain self-reliant.

21. Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports

• The youth must develop India’s own social media platforms and digital infrastructure, ensuring communication, data, and technological ecosystems remain secure and independent, reinforcing India’s digital autonomy.
• To promote sports, we have brought forth the National Sports Policy.
• We have introduced the 'Khelo India policy' in the country.

Note: Some items have involvement of more than one ministry, accordingly they may be repeated.

 

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(Release ID: 2156841)