The Impressive TimesNew Delhi— Prime Minister Narendra Modi, delivering the longest Independence Day address of his tenure from the Red Fort, outlined an ambitious vision to transform India into a self-reliant, innovation-driven, and globally competitive $10 trillion economy by 2047.
In his 103-minute speech, Modi declared self-reliance as the “bedrock” of a developed India, urging citizens, especially youth, to champion innovation, entrepreneurship, and “Vocal for Local” initiatives. Citing India’s progress from indigenous vaccines to defence manufacturing, he announced major initiatives across key sectors, including Mission Sudarshan Chakra to strengthen strategic autonomy, a National Deepwater Exploration Mission for energy independence, and the launch of Made-in-India semiconductor chips by year-end.
On national security, he lauded Operation Sindoor for dismantling cross-border terror networks using entirely indigenous weaponry, asserted a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, and rejected the Indus Waters Treaty as unjust to Indian farmers. He also announced a nationwide security shield by 2035 and a High-Powered Demography Mission to counter infiltration and demographic imbalance.
In economic reforms, Modi promised next-generation GST changes by Diwali, reduced taxes on essentials, and income tax exemption up to ₹12 lakh. He unveiled the ₹1 lakh crore PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana to benefit three crore youth, alongside measures to ease compliance for MSMEs and startups.
For farmers, he reiterated his commitment to protecting their interests, highlighting record grain production and ₹4 lakh crore agricultural exports. The PM Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana will target 100 backward farming districts, complemented by efforts for domestic fertiliser production.
Women’s empowerment remained a key focus, with a pledge to make three crore women “Lakhpati Didis” and expansion of initiatives like Namo Drone Didi. He also stressed cultural pride, announcing preservation of ancient manuscripts under the Gyan Bharatam Mission, and honouring the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Modi celebrated India’s clean energy milestone — achieving its 2030 target of 50% clean energy five years early — and pledged continued advances in solar, hydrogen, nuclear, and hydro power. He announced the National Critical Minerals Mission to secure essential resources for energy, industry, and defence.
Concluding with a call for unity, pride in heritage, and freedom from “all forms of slavery,” Modi vowed that India will neither stop nor bow until it achieves a Viksit Bharat by 2047, built on the strength, resolve, and innovation of its 140 crore citizens.
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