A Vision for a Developed India: Modi’s Historic 79th Independence Day Address

New Delhi, 15 August 2025 — In a record-breaking 103-minute oration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered India’s longest-ever Independence Day speech, outlining an ambitious roadmap toward a self-reliant and developed India by 2047. This address marked Modi’s 12th consecutive speech from the Red Fort, surpassing Indira Gandhi and placing him just behind Jawaharlal Nehru in terms of continuity.

Key Announcements & Strategic Vision

1. “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and “Viksit Bharat” by 2047

The speech revolved around the themes of self-reliance and the vision of a Developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. Modi emphasized that self-reliance must be the foundation for future growth.

2. GST Reforms as a “Diwali Gift”

Modi announced the implementation of next-generation Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms by Diwali to reduce the tax burden on everyday essentials—called a symbolic “Diwali gift” to citizens.

3. Major Push on Energy Independence

A major initiative was unveiled to bolster India’s energy independence—with a strong focus on expanding nuclear power and undertaking deep-sea oil exploration to reduce reliance on imports.

4. Mission Sudarshan Chakra & Defence Modernization

The mission named ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ was introduced to expand, modernize, and strengthen India’s defense capabilities, reinforcing the nation’s security architecture.

5. Demography Mission to Counter Infiltration

PM Modi raised alarms over an alleged demographic shift through orchestrated illegal infiltration, especially in border areas, and announced the formation of a high-powered Demographic Mission to address it.

6. Reassessing the Indus Waters Treaty

Labeling the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan as unjust and one-sided, Modi declared that “blood and water cannot flow together,” signaling India’s intent to revisit or suspend the agreement.

7. Self-Reliance in Critical Sectors

Modi stressed reduced dependency on imports by boosting domestic production in critical minerals and fertilizers, noting that exploration has begun across more than 1,200 sites.

8. Task Force for Next-Generation Reforms

To steer transformative policies, a dedicated task force was announced that will roll out long-term reforms under the “Viksit Bharat” agenda.

9. Protecting Farmers amid Global Tensions

Against the backdrop of U.S. tariffs, Modi assured Indian farmers, fishermen, and livestock keepers of continued protection and reaffirmed India’s commitment to domestic production of jet engines, EV batteries, and fertilizers.

10. Affordable Healthcare & “Daam Kam, Dam Zyada”

Highlighting affordable access to healthcare, Modi stressed the government’s motto — “Daam Kam, Dum Zyada” (“lower cost, greater impact”) — focusing on affordable medicines, medical equipment, and support for startups and research.

Why This Speech Matters: SEO Focus & Relevance

• Record-breaking address: Longest Independence Day speech at 103 minutes, breaking his own record and surpassing Indira Gandhi’s streak.

• Defining vision: Clear roadmap toward Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat by 2047.

• Economic relief: Tax reforms aimed at easing the burden on everyday items.

• Strategic independence: From energy to defense to critical resources, India is positioning itself as more self-reliant.

• National security: Demography mission and defense modernization underline a tough stance on threats.

• Inclusive growth: Protecting farmers and promoting affordable healthcare, all while encouraging innovation.