New Delhi, August 15: On the occasion of Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort, discussing India’s economic growth, women’s participation, self-reliance, national security, and the need to maintain the momentum of development.
The Prime Minister remarked, “Today is a historic moment for all of us. For the first time in 80 years, ‘Vande Mataram’ was sung at the Red Fort on Independence Day. We will work towards creating a ‘developed India‘ by 2047. This is the collective voice of over 1.4 billion citizens.”
He noted a 4% increase in internet users and consumers, and a 100% rise in digital transactions. “We have provided direct water supply and gas connections every year. These achievements over the past decade show that we are on the path to a ‘developed India’,” he added.
PM Modi highlighted the expansion of gas distribution, stating, “Before 2014, only 70 cities had piped gas distribution. In 12 years, we have expanded this to 700 cities. This is progress. Previously, only 2-2.2 million homes had piped gas; today, nearly 20 million homes benefit from this service.”
He also mentioned the growth in solar energy capacity, which increased from just 2 gigawatts to 160 gigawatts. “Railway electrification began in 1925, but only 30% was completed in 90 years. We achieved 100% completion in just a decade. This saved diesel imports and benefited the environment,” he stated.
The Prime Minister pointed out that India has free trade agreements with over 40 countries and emphasized the potential for growth in the seafood sector. He stated, “India is moving forward rapidly on the ‘Reform Express’. To achieve the 2047 goals, we need next-level reforms across seven key areas: manufacturing power, agriculture and food processing, technology and innovation, infrastructure, defense, green economy, and soft power.”
He stressed the rapid growth of India’s banking sector, asserting that one Indian bank should be among the world’s top five. “Indian companies should aim to be among the top five pharmaceutical firms globally. Reforms must come from strong intentions, not force. The benefits of a ‘developed India’ will primarily reach our youth,” he said, announcing an innovation fund of over 1 lakh crore rupees.
PM Modi noted significant growth in various sectors: khadi and village industries have increased fivefold, electronic manufacturing has grown sevenfold, modern railway coach production has surged twenty-one times, and mobile phone production has risen thirty-three times. “We have made our mark in the digital and innovation sectors. We have resolved to make India free from Naxalism, which has harmed parts of our country and the spirit of our Constitution. We must identify and isolate those with Naxalite ideologies,” he added.
He concluded by addressing the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’, stating it has fallen victim to political vendetta. “I urge all political parties to support the women’s quota bill,” he appealed.
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