On the occasion of India’s 77th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the national flag at Delhi’s iconic Red Fort, delivering his 10th consecutive address to the nation. PM Modi’s speeches on this significant day have consistently surpassed the length of any previous Prime Minister’s speeches.
During his address, PM Modi drew parallels between the current global transformation, akin to the post-World War II era, and India’s evolving role in this transformative landscape. He likened India’s significance to that of “Vishwamitra,” symbolizing its growing influence on the global stage.
One of the key announcements of the day was the launch of the Vishwakarma Yojana, aimed at uplifting barbers and goldsmiths. This scheme has been allocated an initial budget of Rs. 13,000-15,000 crore.
Addressing the ongoing challenges in Manipur, PM Modi assured that the government would pursue a peaceful solution for the northeastern state. He reaffirmed India’s solidarity with the people of Manipur.
PM Modi also highlighted the government’s “Vibrant Villages” initiative, which seeks to transform the perception of border villages. He emphasized that these villages are not merely the last frontier of India but also the first, underscoring their significance.
Since his inaugural Independence Day speech in 2014, PM Modi has effectively utilized this platform to introduce significant policies and engage with citizens. Some of the noteworthy announcements made during these addresses include the Swachh Bharat Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.
The event served as the grand finale of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, which were launched in 2021 to commemorate India’s 75th anniversary of independence.
Around 1,800 special guests from diverse sectors of society were extended invitations to witness the Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort.
PM Modi’s address also spotlighted the government’s commitment to middle-class and women-led development. He pledged to bolster the middle class in the coming years.
Furthermore, PM Modi applauded women’s self-help groups and aspired to empower two crore ‘lakhpati didis’ (prosperous sisters). He advocated for the protection of daughters and stressed the collective responsibility to combat atrocities.