Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort for the 12th consecutive time on the 79th Independence Day and addressed the nation for 103 minutes. His speech covered national security, economic self-reliance, global competition, and public health.
Highlighting the country’s need to draw a “bigger line” amid rising global economic self-interest, PM Modi announced initiatives to boost domestic manufacturing in semiconductors, fighter jet engines, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence.
In a major defence announcement, he unveiled the “Sudarshan Chakra” protective shield to safeguard all key government and civilian establishments from aerial threats. Stressing national sovereignty, he pledged to block illegal foreign infiltration through a High-Power Demography Mission and assured farmers and fishermen that their interests would never be compromised.
Responding strongly to Pakistan’s nuclear threats, PM Modi said India will no longer tolerate “nuclear blackmail.” He urged producers to follow the principle of “low cost, high efficiency” to remain competitive globally.
Drawing parallels between the sacrifices for an independent India and the hard work needed for a prosperous India, PM Modi called for collective efforts in self-reliance and promoting local products. He also addressed public health, warning about the crisis of obesity and urging people to improve their diets and reduce oil consumption.
