The Longest Yet: Self-Reliance, Security and Economic Vision for India in PM Modi's 79th Independence Day Address
In his latest Independence Day speech to the nation from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi bravely continues inspiring a self-reliant India in the spirit of national security, economic reform and India's future. Full of quotes and great initiatives.
Celebrating Independence Day speech #79, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his way to the historic Red Fort, New Delhi on August 15, 2025 for his 12th consecutive annual speech from this location. With no pause, he spoke for 103 minutes. Last year he set a record of 98 minutes, now overtaken by a 103-minute speech.
In traditional attire, Modi offered no prayer, only homage at Rajghat before making his way to the Red Fort to share yet more enduring messages about hope and his views for an upgraded India. He heralded Independence Day as a "festival of hope and aspirations." The brief ceremony included a ceremonial floral tribute, observance of a display of armed forces, and full aerial salutes via Mi-17 helicopters.
Self-Reliance: The Central Message
A significant focus of the speech is Atmanirbhar Bharat, that is vivekish self-reliant. Modi called the citizens of India to innovate and play to their local strengths, using the example "Daam kam, dum zyada" (low cost, high performance). The Prime Minister noted several examples of India's self-sufficiency relating to independence in energy, food security and defence production while including aspects of Operation Sindoor as a positive example of India's military self-reliance.
Bold Initiatives: Economic, Technology & Policy
In a time of popular concerns, Modi announced additional proposed next generation GST inputs as a "Diwali gift", dealing with lowering the tax burden on 'aam aadmi' by lowering the price of everyday goods.
On the technology side - Modi expressed the country's plan for a "Made in India" semiconductor chip by the end of the year, alongside six new semiconductor units approved by the cabinet to facilitate the country's tech capabilities. He reiterated India's clean energy advances noting that on clean energy India achieved targets five years early and a tenfold increase in nuclear capacity to be realised by 2047.
A Strong Position on Security and Sovereignty
In a firm, strong voice, PM Modi emphasized that India would “not tolerate nuclear blackmail,” also indicating that “terrorists and their sponsors are all the same.” Recalling recent tragedies, he referred to the April Pahalgam terror attack: “We gave armed forces free hand to respond,” leading to Operation Sindoor—a strong answer to cross-border terrorism.
A Vision for Tomorrow
In his closing remarks, Modi expressed support for the victims of natural catastrophes, expressed optimism for a prosperous “Viksit Bharat,” and encouraged young Indians to develop “home-grown social media platforms and jet engines, and more," imploring the nation to move forward with confidence toward its future.
