New Delhi, August 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day. He emphasized that India has gained new momentum over the past 12 years. “We are moving forward at a rapid pace, and it is now impossible to halt the resolve and capabilities of 140 crore Indians,” he stated.
The Prime Minister noted significant advancements in various sectors. Defense production has increased nearly fourfold, while the production of Khadi and village industries has grown fivefold. Electronic manufacturing has surged by seven times, modern railway coach production has expanded 21 times, and mobile phone production has skyrocketed by 33 times. Furthermore, India has made remarkable strides in the digital and innovation sectors.
He highlighted that the number of internet users and consumers has nearly quadrupled. The number of patents granted has also increased fourfold, and digital transactions have surged by an astonishing 100 times. The government has prioritized the convenience of ordinary citizens, providing water connections at an average rate 15 times faster each year, gas connections six times faster, and constructing toilets for the underprivileged four times faster. Additionally, housing for the poor has been delivered at a rate three times faster annually.
PM Modi pointed out that significant changes have also been made in governance. Hundreds of outdated laws have been repealed, as the country cannot march into the 21st century with 20th-century legislation.
He mentioned the expansion of modern infrastructure, including metro systems and enhanced public transport. The speed and scale of these initiatives are unprecedented in the decade following independence. With such achievements and rapid progress, the resolve to become a ‘developed India’ by 2047 is firmly within reach.
He stated, “These figures testify to our progress, but they require confidence and self-respect. It is equally essential to be self-reliant. Our conviction over the past years has been that India should no longer depend on other countries; we must strive for self-sufficiency.”
PM Modi concluded by asserting that while many things in the world are available cheaply and quickly, they do not build our strength or test our capabilities. Therefore, it is crucial to enhance our capacities and protect our interests, reinforcing the commitment to a self-reliant India.
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