New Delhi, August 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his longest Independence Day address yet — a 103-minute speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort — laying out a vision for a “Naya Bharat” built on military strength, self-reliance, and economic resilience. The address combined tributes to India’s armed forces, calls for domestic manufacturing, and firm responses to both external threats and internal challenges.
The speech prominently featured Operation Sindoor, the recent military action carried out in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam massacre. PM Modi hailed it as a defining moment in India’s counter-terror strategy, declaring that the operation “dealt enemies a blow beyond their imagination” and set a “new normal” in responding to terrorism. Flanked by a flag representing the operation alongside the Tricolour, he reiterated that India’s armed forces would now decide the time and place of any future response to cross-border attacks.
The Prime Minister also linked security to resource control, calling the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan “unjust and one-sided”. Following its suspension, he said, water once flowing to Pakistan was now being utilised for Indian farmers, underlining the principle that “blood and water cannot flow together.”
In a forward-looking defence commitment, PM Modi announced Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a new national security programme inspired by the mythological weapon of Lord Krishna, aimed at protecting critical sites and ensuring rapid counter-strikes.
Reinforcing his Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, PM Modi framed self-reliance as essential for both economic and strategic independence. He credited domestic manufacturing for the success of Operation Sindoor, noting that Indian-made ammunition and defence systems played a decisive role.
The Prime Minister outlined ambitious plans for energy independence, highlighting advances in solar, hydrogen, and nuclear energy. He claimed that India’s clean energy goals for 2030 have already been met and promised a tenfold increase in nuclear energy by 2047, while also opening the nuclear sector to private participation.
On the technology front, PM Modi criticised past governments for missing opportunities in the semiconductor sector. He announced that the first made-in-India semiconductor chip will be launched by the end of this year, with six units operational and four more approved.
Strong Message to the US on Trade
Addressing trade tensions with the United States — particularly in light of new tariffs linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil and weapons — PM Modi vowed to protect the interests of Indian farmers and fishermen. Without naming US President Donald Trump, he denounced “economic selfishness” and renewed his call for a “vocal for local” movement, urging citizens to buy and promote Indian-made goods.
PM Modi also warned against attempts to “change the demography of the country” and announced a forthcoming demography-control mission, with a particular focus on protecting tribal lands from illegal encroachment.
Independence Day Ceremonial Highlights
The celebrations began with PM Modi inspecting a Guard of Honour comprising personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police. The national flag was hoisted with a 21-gun salute, assisted by Flying Officer Rashika Sharma, while two Mi-17 helicopters showered petals — one carrying the Tricolour and the other the Operation Sindoor flag.
Notably, the Operation Sindoor emblem featured on invitation cards, floral displays, and viewing areas. Around 5,000 special guests, including athletes from the Special Olympics, international medalists, and para-sports champions, were present at the Red Fort.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged recent natural disasters across several states, expressing condolences for the loss of lives and assuring full central assistance for relief and recovery efforts.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
