NEW DELHI: As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort.
He presented a sweeping vision for India’s future in his speech, outlining a series of ambitious goals aimed at positioning the country as a global leader across multiple sectors. He also emphasized the focus on Indian youth, skilling, the education sector, and other key areas.
Among the highlights of PM Modi’s speech was the launch of the “Ease of Living Mission,” aimed at enhancing the quality of life in urban areas through systematic infrastructure and service improvements. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of making life easier and more comfortable for India’s urban population.
Reviving the ancient Nalanda University’s spirit, PM Modi stressed his commitment to transforming India into a global education hub. This initiative, which follows the inauguration of Nalanda University in 2024, seeks to bolster higher learning and research in India.
In a bid to reduce dependency on imports and foster technological self-sufficiency, PM Modi unveiled plans to elevate India’s status in semiconductor production. The “Made in India Chip-Semiconductor Production” initiative reflects the country’s aim to become a global leader in this critical sector.
Highlighting efforts from Budget 2024, PM Modi also underscored the Skill India program, which aims to train the youth and establish India as the world’s skill capital. He further envisioned India as a global manufacturing hub, leveraging its resources and skilled workforce to drive industrial growth.
The Prime Minister also introduced the concept of “Design in India, Design for the World,” urging the development of indigenous products that cater to both domestic and international markets. This initiative reflects a push towards showcasing India’s design capabilities on the global stage.
In the realm of digital innovation, PM Modi called for India to become a leader in the global gaming market. He emphasized leveraging the country’s rich heritage to create and produce globally competitive gaming products.
On environmental issues, PM Modi announced a strong focus on green jobs and the Green Hydrogen Mission. He emphasized the creation of sustainable employment opportunities while combating climate change, with a commitment to becoming a leader in green hydrogen production.
To achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, PM Modi introduced the “Swachh Bharat Mission,” building on the Rashtriya Poshan Abhiyan to ensure a healthier India. Additionally, he urged state governments to establish investment-friendly policies to attract investments and maintain good governance.
PM Modi expressed a desire for Indian standards to become global benchmarks, reflecting a commitment to quality and excellence. He also reiterated India’s goal of achieving 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030, highlighting the country’s success in meeting its Paris Accord targets.
In a bid to address the growing demand for healthcare professionals, PM Modi announced plans to add 75,000 new medical seats over the next five years. He also called for the induction of 100,000 youth into the political system, aiming to combat nepotism and casteism and bring fresh perspectives to Indian politics.