M TIWARI

On the 78th anniversary of India’s independence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the national flag at the Red Fort for the 11th consecutive time. In an august ceremony, Modi highlighted the path towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047, calling for unity, resilience, and dedication.

Prime Minister Modi paid rich tribute to the countless freedom fighters and also reflected on the nation’s achievements. Modi’s speech set the tone for India’s future, building on both the challenges faced and the milestones achieved under his government. In his speech, Modi emphasized India’s potential to become a developed nation by 2047, exactly 100 years after gaining independence.

“Today, we are 140 crore people, and if we resolve to move in one direction, we can achieve a developed India by overcoming all obstacles,” he said. In his speech PM Modi acknowledged the growing concerns surrounding natural disasters, which have affected multiple regions across India.

From devastating landslides in Kerala to the widespread flooding in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi, the Prime Minister expressed his sympathies for the lives lost and the homes destroyed. India’s rapid advancements in banking, space, and women empowerment featured prominently in Modi’s address.

PM Modi highlighted reforms aimed at boosting the economy and supporting farmers, the middle class, and startups. Hailing the space achievements of the country Modi said that there was a rise in space startups and a keen interest in scientific temper after India’s moon odyssey.

PM Modi said he was proud of women’s empowerment, with over 10 crore women joining self-help groups across the country. He compared the success of women entrepreneurs to that of India’s global CEOs and announced that additional funds would be allocated to support these groups.

Looking back at a decade of infrastructure development, Modi detailed the government’s accomplishments in housing, stating that 4 crore homes had been constructed, with 3 crore more on the way. His government’s focus on the “ease of living” has been a cornerstone of its policies, aimed at improving the quality of life for India’s citizens.

Modi further stressed the need for ongoing reforms, particularly in the agricultural sector, where natural farming practices are being promoted. Overall it was a balanced and positive speech with an emphasis on development. As customary, the PM also numerated his government’s achievements albeit with little exaggeration.

As PM Modi’s 11th Independence Day speech ended, it was clear that his vision for India was rooted in development, unity, and resilience. With the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, the Prime Minister called on every Indian to join in shaping the nation’s future, overcoming challenges, and taking pride in its achievements.