Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered India's 80th Independence Day address from the Red Fort, outlining the nation's vision to become a developed Viksit Bharat by 2047. He emphasized that India has shown unprecedented progress over the last 12 years and is progressing with renewed confidence and determination, with the world witnessing India's momentum.
The Prime Minister stated that a Viksit Bharat must also be an Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Bharat, highlighting the transformation already visible through 'Make in India' and 'Vocal for Local' initiatives. Specifically, India is developing an entire semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem with plants having started operations, chip exports begun, and production in more plants expected in the coming years. The country is also strengthening capabilities in critical minerals.
Several new initiatives were announced targeting youth development and education. The government has decided to provide free online coaching for various examinations to reduce the economic burden of coaching classes on poor and middle-class families, with plans to build a strong network in this direction. For sports development, a major nationwide talent hunt will be launched from villages to cities targeting the 2036 Olympics, focusing on identifying and providing special training to children aged 5-15 years.
The address identified seven key growth pillars (Saptdhara) that will provide new momentum to the country: Manufacturing Power, Agriculture and Food Processing, Technology and Innovation, Gatishakti (infrastructure mobility), Defense Power, Green Economy and Blue Economy, and Soft Power. The Prime Minister also appealed to all political parties to come forward to implement women's reservation at the earliest and urged citizens, particularly youth, to participate in the country's first digital census.
Modi highlighted India's resilience during global crises including the COVID-19 pandemic and situations in Ukraine and West Asia, noting that capabilities built over the last decade helped shield poor families and farmers from external pressures, strengthening India's ability to face an uncertain world.