On Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his longest address (103 minutes), focusing on self-reliance, economic reforms, defence indigenisation, employment creation, and demographic challenges.
Key Highlights of the Speech
Self-Reliance as National Strength
- PM underlined that self-respect (aatma-samman) is linked to self-reliance (aatmanirbharta).
- Stressed that self-reliance is not limited to trade balance, but extends to defence, economy, technology, and agriculture.
- Operation Sindoor showcased success of Indian-made arms and systems.
Economic Reforms and GST 2.0
- Announcement of two high-powered task forces:
- Second Generation GST Reforms: to simplify compliance and reduce prices of essentials (to be rolled out by Diwali).
- Next-Gen Economic Reforms: to strengthen India’s competitiveness globally.
- Focus on reducing compliance burden for MSMEs, ensuring relief from arbitrary legal actions.
Employment Generation
- Launch of Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana with a ₹1 lakh crore corpus.
- ₹15,000 one-time grant for first-time employees in private sector. Incentives to companies for creating new jobs.
Technology & Innovation Push
- Commitment to ‘Made-in-India’ semiconductor chips by end of 2025.
- Six semiconductor units operational, four more approved.
- Emphasis on AI, cybersecurity, deep-tech, and operating systems to boost global competitiveness.
Defence & Security Dimension
- Highlighted success of anti-Naxal operations, where “terror corridors” have become “green corridors” (notably in Chhattisgarh).
- Cautioned against a “conspiracy to alter demographic character” in border areas.
- Announcement of a High-Powered Demographic Mission to counter such challenges.
Agriculture and Farmers’ Interests
- Reiterated protection of Indian farmers in global negotiations.
- Pitched for reducing dependence on imported fertilizers to ensure self-sufficiency in agriculture inputs.
Significance of the Speech
- Marks strategic continuity of the government’s focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
- Attempts to link economic growth, defence preparedness, and demographic security under one vision.
- Seen as a policy roadmap ahead of major elections and global trade negotiations.
- Notable for being the longest Independence Day speech by any Indian PM (103 minutes).
Conclusion:
The Independence Day address underscored India’s aspiration to emerge as a self-reliant, tech-driven, secure, and farmer-centric economy. By combining reforms in GST, employment, defence, and semiconductors, the roadmap seeks to balance immediate economic relief with long-term structural transformation.
