NEW DELHI. Independence Day 2024: India is marking its 78th Independence Day, and as part of the annual tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and gave his 11th consecutive address to the nation from the Red Fort on Thursday (August 15).
Congratulations are pouring in from around the world, with leaders congratulating the people of India and looking to strengthen diplomatic ties with the South Asian nation. Here are the world leaders who joined in India's 78th Independence Day celebrations by sending their best wishes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the occasion of Independence Day and said that laws that create divisions within the country have no place in contemporary society and should be abolished.
"The Supreme Court has repeatedly held discussions on uniform civil code, given orders, because a large section of the country feels, and rightly so, that the current civil code is a communal civil code, a discriminatory civil code. The Constitution tells us, the Supreme Court tells us to and it was the dream of the Constitution makers. So it is our duty to fulfill it," said PM Modi, who hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort for the 11th consecutive time.
"There must be widespread discussions, everyone should come forward with their opinions and laws that divide the country on religious lines must be done away with. They have no place in a modern society. Time demands a secular civil code. And then we will be free of religious discrimination," he added.
Earlier, the BJP's Lok Sabha election manifesto stated that the party views a uniform civil code as beneficial for the nation. Several state governments led by the BJP have already taken steps to implement a uniform civil code.
In view of the same, the Prime Minister's comments suggest that the government aims to tackle this contentious issue on a nationwide scale during its current term.
Meanwhile, PM Modi, in his speech, also outlined a series of futuristic goals aimed at shaping India's growth in its Amrit Kaal.
Among his thrust points for the next two decades, PM Modi said that India must leverage its rich ancient legacy and literature to come up with Made in India gaming products.
He added that Indian professionals must lead the global gaming market, not just in playing but also in producing games, stating that Indian games should make their mark worldwide.
Highlights from PM Modi's 78th Independence Day speech at the Red Fort
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion on the 78th Independence Day on Thursday, called for an overhaul of the political system in India as he once again called out the menace of dynasty politics.
In his 11th address to the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the imperative of embracing and implementing key reforms. Speaking from the historic Red Fort, he presented a compelling vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India) by 2047, inspired by the legacy of India's freedom struggle.
He highlighted the transformative power of collective resolve, stating, 'If 40 crore people could unite to break free from the chains of colonial oppression and secure our independence, imagine what can be achieved by the combined determination of 140 crore people today.' His speech paid tribute to the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and called for a unified national effort to propel India towards unparalleled growth and development.
Here are top quotes from the PM's speech on this 78th Independence Day:
ONE NATION ONE ELECTION
In a bid for political unity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged all political parties and stakeholders to support the 'One Nation, One Election' initiative. He pointed out that the frequent electoral cycles are impeding national progress, asserting, "Frequent elections are creating obstacles in the country's advancement."
UNIFORM CIVIL CODE: NEED OF THE HOUR
PM Modi highlighted the necessity of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to ensure equality and secularism. He remarked, "A large section of the country believesâand it is true, that the Civil Code we are living with is, in effect, a Communal Civil Code. It is essential to have a secular civil code to eliminate religious discrimination."
PROTECTING MINORITIES
Regarding recent violence in Bangladesh, PM Modi expressed understanding and concern, stating, "As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding the events in Bangladesh. I hope the situation there stabilises swiftly."
IMPORTANT TO INSTIL FEAR IN CRIMINALS
In response to public outrage over crimes against women, PM Modi called for immediate investigations and stringent punishments. "The public is outraged by atrocities against women," he noted, emphasising the need for "speedy investigation and punishment" to restore trust.
A RESPONSE TO NATURAL CALAMITIES
PM Modi extended his condolences to those affected by recent natural disasters. "This year, and in previous years, natural calamities have increased our concerns. Many have lost family members and property, and the nation has suffered significant losses," he said, offering his unwavering support to the victims.
SALUTING THE ARMED FORCES
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the Indian armed forces, stating, "When the country's armed forces conduct surgical and air strikes, every Indian feels immense pride." His comments underscored the vital role of the military in national security.
MAKING MIDDLE CLASS LIFE EASY
Focusing on middle-class aspirations, PM Modi reaffirmed his government's commitment to enhancing the quality of life and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. "We are addressing the middle class's expectations for a better quality of life and freedom from red tape," he declared, prioritising "Ease of Living" for all citizens.
INFRASTRUCTURAL SHIFT
PM Modi highlighted the significant infrastructure advancements made over the past decade, including improvements in roads, airports, railways, medical colleges, and affordable housing. "We have developed advanced systems across sectors such as tourism, MSMEs, education, health, transport, and agriculture. Our goal is to lead by adopting the world's best practices," he said.
SPACE EXPLORATION
Touching on the growing space sector, PM Modi showcased the active role of private companies and startups in satellite and rocket launches. "The space sector is crucial. We have implemented numerous reforms, and today, many startups are contributing to this field," he remarked, emphasising the government's support for innovation.
NALANDA'S REVIVAL IN EDUCATION
PM Modi called for educational reforms to establish world-class institutions in India and attract international students, invoking the historic "Nalanda spirit." He urged the development of educational frameworks to retain Indian youth within the country, fostering domestic opportunities...
Semiconductor Power, Global Gaming Market & Green Jobs: PM Modi Unveils 'Dream India' on 78th Independence Day
Made in India Semiconductor
Right now, India is taking slow steps in the semiconductor business. Though the country's semiconductor ecosystem is on an upward trajectory, bolstered by government policies and international partnerships, India has a long way to go. The country is looking to develop an entire ecosystem - from design to manufacturing - rather than focusing on a specific segment of the chip industry.
However, in his I-Day speech, PM Modi showcased a future where Made in India chip-semiconductor will rule the world, aiming to reduce dependency on imports and enhance technological self-sufficiency.
Semiconductors drive virtually everything - rice cookers, LED lighting displays, gaming devices, and blood pressure monitors. They are extensively used in medical devices and clean energy for transportation and defence as well. So, when the prime minister envisioned a Made in India semiconductor, he knew the potential it had.
Global Gaming Market
In PM Modi's dream India, the country is a global gaming market where it manufactures and exports games to the world, and not the other way around. The prime minister said that India must leverage its rich ancient legacy and literature to come up with Made in India gaming products.
Not long ago, he had welcomed a bunch of Gen Z gamers and game creators to 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, and tried some of the games himself. Back then, when asked about possible regulation in the industry, he had said: "My attempt is to uplift the nation to a level that by 2047, the government is out of the lives of middle-class families in particular. Our life is stuck in paperwork. It is the poor who need the government, the government should be there with them in difficult times."
In Modi's vision of future India, Indian professionals must lead the global gaming market, not just in playing but also in producing games. According to his Independence Day speech, Indian games should make their mark worldwide.
Green Jobs for Real? Of Course
PM Modi also showcased a future India through his words where green jobs are created to combat climate change. In fact, Modi mentioned climate change very early in his speech on Thursday, showing the importance he accords to the issue. He has just returned from surveying a landslide-hit Wayanad over the weekend.
PM Modi said the focus of India is now on green growth and green jobs, which will generate employment opportunities while contributing to environmental protection, simultaneously. This is not the first time he mentioned green jobs. Earlier, during Environment Day in 2022, he made a reference to the same.
'Green jobs' refer to a class of jobs that directly have a positive impact on the planet, while contributing to overall environmental welfare. They are aimed at reducing the negative environmental impact of economic sectors while creating a low-carbon economy.
The prime minister also reiterated India's commitment to becoming a global leader in green hydrogen production and creating sustainable employment opportunities in environmental conservation and renewable energy sectors.
10 Years of Vision and Inspiration: PM Modi's top Independence Day quotes
Since 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delivered impactful and inspiring Independence Day speeches, resonating with millions of people across India and beyond.
Over the past decade, PM Modi's speeches have not only reflected the Indian government's vision for the future but have also served as a call to action, motivating citizens to strive for excellence and contribute to the nation's progress.
In these speeches, PM Modi has emphasised a variety of themes, including economic growth, technological innovation, national security, and social welfare. He has consistently highlighted the government's initiatives and reforms aimed at improving the quality of life for all citizens and has underscored the importance of unity, resilience, and self-reliance in overcoming challenges.
Over the years, PM Modi's Independence Day addresses from the historic Red Fort in Delhi have been a platform to outline his government's vision and ambitious plans for India's future. He has consistently used this occasion to highlight key initiatives, reflect on the nation's progress, and galvanise the citizens to participate actively in the nation-building process.
Here are the highlights of the PM's speeches in the last 10 years:
2014: VISION OF A NEW INDIA
In his maiden speech, PM Modi spoke of a 'Digital India' and emphasised the importance of sanitation and a clean environment. He launched the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, a campaign aimed at making India clean and open defecation-free.
2015: STARTUP INDIA, STANDUP INDIA
PM Modi introduced the 'Startup India, Standup India' initiative, encouraging young entrepreneurs and fostering a culture of innovation. He also called for a 'Team India' approach where every citizen contributes to the nation's development.
2016: ONE NATION, ONE TAX
Modi laid the groundwork for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) during this address, promoting it as a significant step towards simplifying the tax structure and fostering economic growth.
2017: NEW INDIA BY 2022
The speech focused on creating a 'New India' by 2022, free of corruption, poverty, and terrorism. He urged citizens to take a pledge to help in nation-building and called for unity and social harmony.
2018: HEALTH CARE AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Announcing the Ayushman Bharat scheme, dubbed as the world's largest healthcare initiative, he highlighted the government's focus on healthcare and infrastructure.
2019: ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL REFORMS
In his address, PM Modi spoke about the importance of water conservation, the need for population control, and the significance of respecting and safeguarding the environment.
2020: COVID-19 AND AATMANIRBHAR BHARAT
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi's speech focused on India's resilience and the government's efforts to turn challenges into opportunities. He introduced the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-reliant India) initiative to boost local manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.
2021: TECHNOLOGICAL AND AGRICULTURAL REFORMS
PM Modi emphasised the need for technological advancements in agriculture, digital education, and the empowerment of women.
2022: INDIA@75, CELEBRATING AZADI KA AMRIT MAHOTSAV
As India celebrated 75 years of independence, PM Modi reflected on the journey of the nation and the progress made. He outlined five vows (Panch Pran) for the country to follow in the next 25 years to make India a developed nation.
2023: GLOBAL AMBITIONS AND LOCAL ACHIEVEMENTS
PM Modi spoke of India's growing role on the global stage and reiterated the importance of local self-reliance and sustainable development.
Add comment
Comments