Prime Minister Modi Highlights Self-Reliant India as Pathway to Developed India on Independence Day

New Delhi, August 15: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort, emphasizing that ‘Self-Reliant India’ is the pathway to ‘Developed India.’ He noted that initiatives like ‘Make in India,’ indigenous production, and ‘Vocal for Local’ are resonating with every Indian.

In his address, Modi cited the example of semiconductors, stating, “After gaining independence, discussions about semiconductors were prevalent globally. While we talked about it, we failed to establish a significant semiconductor plant. Today, in our digital world, we understand the importance of chips. Every electronic device, medical equipment, and transport system requires chips. The absence of chips has created a situation where the world could come to a standstill. Therefore, India has initiated three semiconductor plants to become self-reliant.”

He further mentioned, “I have been informed that production exports from these semiconductor plants have already begun. I want to tell the citizens that in the next 7-8 years, we will establish 5-8 more semiconductor plants. This ‘Self-Reliant India’ shows us the pathway to ‘Developed India.'”

The Prime Minister also discussed the significance of critical minerals, stating that technology heavily relies on them. India is working to secure its position in this area. He announced the launch of the ‘National Critical Minerals Mission’ and the establishment of critical mineral corridors. Agreements with several countries are underway, and many nations are beginning to trust India in the realm of critical minerals.

Modi highlighted that as discussions about semiconductors and critical minerals continue, the importance of energy in the direction of technology is increasing. He remarked that running the new world without energy is challenging. Thus, we require substantial electricity for chips, AI, and data centers. Energy security is a pressing demand, and we have already taken strong steps in that direction.

He pointed out that nuclear energy is a significant means of ensuring energy security. By passing the ‘Peace Act’ in Parliament, we have paved the way to a new goal. We aim to achieve 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy by 2047, with plans to start five new nuclear reactors in this decade.